Personal Support Worker Program · receive a certificate from St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education Centre of the Waterloo Catholic Dist rict School Board and a Personal

2019

Student Handbook

Personal Support Worker Program

Waterloo Catholic District School Board

PSW Program Student Handbook

1 | P a g e

“Personal Support Workers respect and support people’s desire to be healthy and independent according to their own choices and capabilities. The purpose of the support is to assist persons

with the tasks of daily living so that they may participate in their community.” Ontario Community Support Association – Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Personal Support

Worker Training Standards – 1997

Welcome Welcome to the St. Louis Personal Support Worker Program. This Program is offered through the St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education Centre of the Waterloo Catholic District School Board and was developed by the Ontario Community Support Association in association with the Ontario Government.

Upon successful completion of all the course modules and the final CESBA exam, students will receive a certificate from St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education Centre of the Waterloo Catholic District School Board and a Personal Support Worker pin from the Ontario Long Term Care Association.

Vision

St. Louis will be the leader of excellence in the education and development of PSW health care professionals within the communities we serve.

Mandate

The St. Louis PSW Program will inspire and engage our students to realize their full potential. We will nurture hope, opportunity and success by:

• Providing accessible education to our students by removing barriers, • Guiding students along their chosen career path so that they can support people’s

needs to be healthy and independent according to the clients’ choices and capabilities, • Following approved educational standards necessary to provide PSW students of

excellence, • Consistently demonstrating “Best Practice” Guidelines, and • Collaborating with our Community Partners to serve the diverse and ever-changing needs

of the community.

Contacts The Personal Support Worker Program Manager is Tammy Cantin and she can be reached at 519-745-1201 ext. 203 or by email – [email protected] The PSW Administrative Assistant can be reached at 519-745-1201 ext. 288 Administrative Assistant hours are Monday-Friday 8am-4pm at the Kitchener campus

mailto:[email protected]


2 | P a g e

Handbook Introduction This Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) Personal Support Worker (PSW) Program Student Handbook is provided to all PSW students on entry into the program. It provides important information on expectations and policies. You are asked to read it thoughtfully and purposefully as part of the course requirements. The content of the handbook aligns with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, and MTCU (Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities) requirements and standards for PSW Program instruction. Follow the link to learn about the Vocational Learning Outcomes (VLO’s)set out by the MTCU that are met through our program; http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/pepg/audiences/colleges/progstan/health/41469.pdf Included in the handbook are the documents that each student must sign regarding Code of Conduct and Confidentiality. Following a detailed review of the handbook with the Instructor you will detach these documents and sign a copy that will be retained in your student file. The Student Handbook will be accompanied by the WCDSB Course Outlines which provide information on courses and classroom expectations. Additional documents will be provided including a calendar which lists course timelines and Instructor contact information specific to your program location. The Waterloo Catholic District School Board is proud to offer a highly respected, certified PSW training program. Our ability to deliver adult and continuing education programming for personal support workers in conjunction with the Ministry of Education Ontario Secondary School (OSS) graduation requirements makes this program unique from other PSW training you may have considered. We are pleased to be able to make this very special contribution to the health and wellbeing of our community. The dedicated program staff wishes you every success as you journey with us in adult and continuing education. Student Code of Behaviour – Professionalism How I relate to my fellow students, Instructors(s), placement facilities, community members, guest speakers and the WCDSB PSW staff will play a large part in my successful completion of this program and my future employment. Respect: I will treat everybody with dignity and treat him or her the way I want to be treated. I will attack the issue and not the person. Responsibility: I will understand and know what must be done and do it. Accountability: I will answer for my actions. Integrity: I will be truthful in my dealings with others. Appreciation: I will appreciate this opportunity and give 100% to the program. Faith: I will believe in my ability and never give up.

http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/pepg/audiences/colleges/progstan/health/41469.pdf


3 | P a g e

Punctuality: I will be punctual for all classes, meetings and placements. Expectations of WCDSB PSW Students • Come prepared every day to learn. • Dress appropriately for both in-class and placement sessions. • Provide a doctor’s note if a quiz, test or exam is missed. • Find out what has been missed on your own time if a class is missed. This is your

responsibility. • Contact your Instructor(s) at least one (1) hour before the start of class or placement facility

if unable to attend. • Be on time for both class and placement. • Be at placement and in class 100% percent of the time. • Be responsible for behaviour in the classroom but also for providing evidence of

achievement of the overall expectations. • Take on responsibility to arrange transportation to class and/or placement to ensure arrival

on time • Take on responsibility to arrange your personal tasks outside of class time (i.e. daycare,

financial assistance, etc.) • You must provide an email address to the school. If you do not have one, there are many

sites that you can get one for no fee at all.

Soft Skills

Soft skills influence how you work and communicate with other people and can make a big difference in your career. These are the personal attributes you use to influence and enhance the way you communicate and relate to clients/residents, colleagues, peers, friends…anyone really! These skills can impact your career prospects, your job performance and many other activities in life. Employers are increasingly looking for softer skills in addition to skills qualifications. Below is a list of soft skills of which you will be observed and graded throughout the program. These skills are imperative to obtain, especially as a PSW student and employee in the Health Care field. Communication and Interpersonal Skills: The ability to communicate effectively is arguably one of the most important skills in any workplace, but especially in the healthcare field. Communicating with clients/residents requires you to both listen attentively and explain clearly. Communicating well with team members and colleagues leads to successful collaboration. Having strong interpersonal skills will allow you to work well with the variety of people you will encounter in the healthcare field.


4 | P a g e

Receptive to feedback: You will most likely encounter criticism at some point in your career, whether from a supervisor or client/resident. When dealing with a difficult client/resident, it is necessary to maintain a positive attitude. If receiving feedback from an instructor/peer/supervisor, see it as an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and improve your work. You must then be able to demonstrate this learning and implement it into your practice. This shows that you have understood and respect the feedback that has come from your supervisor/instructor and are willing to provide the best care possible for your client. You will find that respect is reciprocated. Teamwork: You are going to be part of a team; you need to be able to ‘play nicely’ with others and genuinely encourage & support your colleagues/classmates. In helping others be successful, not only will it increase your confidence, but ensure that the clients are receiving the best care possible. Lean on your instructors; their job is to help you fulfill your potential, and they can help you identify what areas you need to strengthen. Emotional stability. It is important to properly handle your emotions, so they do not interfere with your school/work, especially when it is common to interact with sick people who are in pain on a daily basis. Exemplifying a positive outlook and enthusiasm for your job will help you deliver the best care possible. Self-confidence. Clients/Residents need to know that they can trust you; if you don't have confidence in yourself, they won't feel confident about you either. Engagement and Attitude: To be successful you must be willing to put in 100% every day. Whether it is in Lab, Placement or Workplace, you must be engaged in learning (or giving care) and take initiative in your own education. Seek out new opportunities, be approachable, beware of your body language, have positive interactions with colleagues and instructors, and make the most of your learning environment. All these attributes, support Professionalism. Your clients, colleagues, instructors and employers will value your contributions and respect your abilities to their fullest if you are constantly and consistently exuding professionalism in the classroom or workplace.


5 | P a g e

CODE OF CONDUCT

As per the Waterloo Catholic District School Board Code of Conduct the following will not be tolerated:

• Any form of violent behaviour, either physical or verbal • Any use of sexual, racial or ethnic slurs or profane language • Anyone being under the influence of drugs (including legalized Cannabis) or alcohol

while on school property or attending any co-op portion of their program • Any smoking at the school or placement agencies except in permitted smoking areas • Any willful destruction of school property • Any forms of clothing that may be offensive or have any symbols or writing that

advocates violence or the use of drugs/alcohol – no gang clothing or colours.

As per WCDSB policy, a student can be suspended or expelled for unacceptable conduct.

As part of the PSW Program and out of respect of other students:

• The use of cell phones in class is prohibited – they must be turned off unless you have prior permission from your instructor for occasional emergency use and then only on vibrate

• The student will be placed on an Agreement after the third incident. If the behaviour continues, the student will be required to meet with the Program Manager and may be asked to leave the program.

• Students may not repeatedly leave class other than scheduled break and lunch times. This includes frequent visits to the washroom.

• Students may not leave placement at any time during their shift or leave the placement early except during emergencies where you have contacted your Instructor before leaving.

Boundaries Students are reminded that they are expected to act in a professional, mature manner at all times. Proper boundaries should be observed with reference to Social Media, confidentiality and therapeutic relationships.

To be in good standing with the St Louis PSW Program, these expectations must be upheld.


6 | P a g e

Professional Conduct – Use of Social Media and Cell Phones

The use of cell phones and laptop computers for social networking must not occur in the classroom or at your placement. This demonstrates respect to others and is preparing you for the workplace environment.

Under some circumstances, your Instructor may allow short term use of your cell phone or laptop if it applies to the class content. If your technology use is disruptive to the class, the Instructor may ask you to leave the class until you are able to re-engage in the learning process. In some circumstances, you may be permitted to leave your phone out on your desk where it is visible to the Instructor or proctor. If a cell phone is found in your possession without permission, during an examination/test, you will be asked to leave the exam/test and your assessment will not be accepted.

Social media outlets can reflect your professionalism and posts can potentially be seen by potential employers. Consider your profession, school and your person when posting anything. Ensure that you do not post anything that can be considered harassment, criticism, defamation of others including peers, colleagues, instructors or others by avoiding impulsive, inappropriate or heated comments.

Privacy includes not taking and posting pictures at placement or in class. Pictures should not be taken unless you have permission of all individuals involved. It is not appropriate to have a ‘friendship’ status online with your clients.

Communication Inquiry / Concern Process For any concerns or issues, students should follow the progressive communication chart below. If there is a teacher issue, students may contact the Program Manager directly by appointment.


7 | P a g e

Criminal Records Check All students are required to submit a recent criminal record check for service with the vulnerable sector. Students will not be considered for this program if they have charges, convictions or negative contact with police. The placement agencies that we use have made it clear that they will only accept students that have a clear record. If during course of the program, a student experiences an incident which may have impact on the police records check, the student should notify the Program Manager immediately. Students will be required to show their original criminal records check to the Instructor on the first day of class and provide two copies for your file. Students will be required to hand the original police check for inspection by the facility/community placement agency and provide them with a photocopy should they request it. If you receive your criminal records check after the program has started, and there are negative entries, convictions, or criminal activities, you will be required to withdraw from the program. Once the records check is clear, you may contact the Program Manager to discuss returning to the program. The criminal records check must be a recent one, no more than two months before the start of the program. You will be required to present a second Record check 1-2 months prior to your Long-term care placement. Two photocopies of the proof must also be submitted to your Instructor.

Ontario Secondary School Credits This program offers 6 secondary school credits upon completion. Each term is worth one credit except for the facility co-op which is worth two credits. Please make an appointment with a St. Louis Guidance Counselor to go over your credits with you. Please make sure that you keep a copy of your transcript from the school you last attended. You can refer to the following website for a description of the credits provided. http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/secondary/2009teched1112curr.pdf

Refunds The $300 deposit is non-refundable. The remaining course cost is non-refundable once the program has started. A refund will be considered if you give at least two weeks written notice of cancellation before the start of the program. Once the program has started, there are no refunds. If you are leaving because of illness, we will work with you to provide a suitable return date. If the length of time between leaving the program and a request to return is too long, the student will be required to repeat any completed terms. See Readmission/Withdrawal Process.

Withdrawal/Readmission A student who wishes to withdraw from the program must contact the Program Manager. See also Attendance.

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/secondary/2009teched1112curr.pdf


8 | P a g e

If the student wishes to return to the PSW program at a later date, the student must contact the Program Manager to initiate discussion about returning to the program. The student must be fully able to commit to the program in its entirety. Acceptance is at the discretion of the Program Manager. If you wish to return, you may be required to start at the beginning of the program. Readmission will only occur if there is a space available. Student may be required to pay FULL re-entry fee upon re-admission.

Attendance Attendance is mandatory. Attendance during class is imperative for the successful completion of the PSW program. The WCDSB expects all students to be present for both theory and practical classes to take advantage of all learning opportunities. Attendance is necessary for the evaluation of successful learning. It is your responsibility to get the missed information from other students. All tests and assignments must be completed by students regardless of absence.

After the 3rd absence, you will be put on an attendance contract. If absences continue, you will be required to meet with the Program Manager and you may be asked to leave the program. This depends on the circumstances surrounding the missed hours, availability of makeup hours and program content that was missed. You will not get credit for any incomplete terms.

If serious illness occurs, please contact your instructor to discuss the length of absence expected. The instructor will discuss your issue with the Program Manager if unable to resolve or if the student needs to leave the program. It is the expectation that students are committed for the full program, therefore no requests for leave from the program will be granted for vacation or non-emergency reasons.

Lateness can also be a serious issue. Ultimately this program is to promote marketability in the health care field and as such requires that students exhibit the work ethic and skills that employers are looking for to be successful. Employers are looking for persons who understand the importance of commitment and professionalism which includes being on time for class and co-op placements. Three late arrivals equal 1-day absence.

Repeated lateness will count towards absences and may jeopardize your access to the classroom or cooperative experience.

** Students must notify their Instructor at least 1 hour prior to the beginning of class of their absence. If students anticipate arriving late for class, please notify your Instructor as soon as possible. Instructors can be notified via text/email/phone messages. Not having your Instructors’ phone number is NOT an acceptable reason. Asking another student to relay your absence or late arrival is not acceptable.**


9 | P a g e

Cooperative Attendance is mandatory which includes lab, LTC and Community settings and all hours and evaluation opportunities are required in order to complete the PSW Program. Orientation to the agency is mandatory and cannot be made up at a later date, therefore any student who missed the orientation to the cooperative placement will not be eligible to continue in the placement and will receive an unsuccessful withdrawal mark.

PLEASE NOTE: Students that have a part-time/full-time job and are in the PSW program in cooperative placement must not demonstrate sleep deprivation due to working at their job. The student will be asked to leave the placement as this could result in a safety issue.

In rare circumstances, if the placement is in the student’s workplace, the agency and St. Louis will have a clear schedule that defines the cooperative placement only and St. Louis does not assume responsibility for the performance while on the job schedule. Also, the student must not wear St. Louis uniform or name tag if on the job.

If you are employed and working in a health care facility and there is a “flu outbreak” there or at the facility that you are attending for your co-op experience, you may be expected to make a choice between attending one or the other. The Public Health Unit may restrict travel between facilities.

Class Cancellations If school is cancelled by the Waterloo Catholic District School Board, it will be announced on the radio on both 105.3 KOOL FM and 96.7 CHYM FM. Please listen carefully to the announcement. The announcement will say all schools are closed if the school is cancelled for the day. You may also check the WCDSB website http://www.wcdsb.ca/ regarding inclement weather.

While on co-op, cancellations will be done by your instructor in collaboration with the PSW Program Manager/Principal and students will be notified if possible. This can only be done if students have shared their contact information with other students. It is possible that during your placement, you may have left home before school closing has been announced on the radio (i.e. 6 a.m. starts). In this case you will not be able to stay at your placement.

Enrollment Confirmation Letters Standard letters are available for those students who require a proof of registration letter. They are available for pick up in the PSW Office in the Kitchener Campus. Students are responsible for taking this letter to his/her agency/worker. Contact the Administrative Assistant of the PSW Program if you require Child Care Subsidy letter. Complete details of your placement will be required to complete this paperwork.

http://www.wcdsb.ca/


10 | P a g e

Classroom Supplies

The St. Louis PSW Program requires all students to have their own supplies such as pens, pencils, plastic sheet protectors, several binders for different requirements. It is recommended that you print off the Mosby Module power points ahead of the class so that you can keep up with the Instructor. There will not be time in the class to write each power point and the comments and details that the Instructor will give.

Academic Achievement and Promotion The St. Louis PSW Program courses and terms must be taken in a certain order. A student cannot move ahead to the next term unless they have successfully completed the term previous. All theory classes must be completed before the student can go to placement.

You must achieve 70% on each test and assignment individually. You must maintain a minimum of 70% in all modules except the Lab portion to advance in this program. A minimum of 80% is required in the Lab and for each skill tested as well as soft skills. Your final mark for each term must also be a minimum of 70%. Students that are unsuccessful in one module may be offered supplemental work and if they are successful will receive the 70% minimum for the module. If Unsuccessful in the supplemental work they will be required to repeat the term or withdraw from the program. Final term marks between 50 and 70 percent allows you to earn an Ontario Secondary School credit, but you will not advance in the PSW Program.

All marks are posted in the classroom within two weeks from the date of writing.

Students must maintain a satisfactory performance level while in placement. The student should receive frequent feedback on their performance and ways to improve their skill levels. If students are unsuccessful in placement, your instructor, along with the Program Manager will advise what possibilities may be open to you.

Students who are unsuccessful in the program academics, cooperative placement or ethically will be withdrawn from the program.

A Student will only be readmitted to the PSW program once. There will be a cost to the readmission.

Tests and Examinations Your instructor will inform you of all test and assignment due dates. Tests/exams provide the PSW student with an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and understanding. Academic testing ensures a student is knowledgeable, competent and ready to apply learned skills within a health care setting.


11 | P a g e

Students must be present for all tests/exams. All bags must be placed at the front of the classroom before the test. Students will only have their pens, correction fluid on their desks.

Students that are late for the test will only be given the remaining time left to complete the test. Cell phones during a test/exam will be considered cheating and appropriate action will be taken. Any other forms of cheating are also unacceptable and there will be serious consequences. Students that hand in their test/exams early are to remain in their seats quietly until the rest of the class is finished.

Personal commitments that conflict with tests/exams/assignment deadlines will affect your marks as there are no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts. In the event of an ‘urgent’ matter, or religious holiday, students must meet with the Program Manager and may be required to provide documentation for the absence. Students must notify the Program Manager & Instructor of absence from any evaluation for any reason. Your absence from a test/exam/assignment must be prior to the evaluation or non-communicated absences will result in an unsuccessful mark for that evaluation. These would include documented illness (doctor’s note) or verified court dates. Communicate the conflict at least two weeks prior to the test/exam/assignment.

A missed test/exam must be taken on the first day upon returning to school and outside of normal class time. It is the responsibility of a student to arrange with the Instructor for a time to write the missed test/exam. Missed tests/exams are expected to be a rarity and should not happen more than once during the course. Please refer to the Test and Exam Protocol Conduct Agreement to ensure you are aware of your responsibilities during tests/exams. Students are requested to read this document and sign the attached sheet and submit it to the classroom teacher. This document will be posted in the classroom. Students may review the test only before the next scheduled test if everyone in the class has written the test in review. Instructors will not review all term tests prior to the final exam.

Tests/Exams rewrites

Test/exam rewrites are only provided for a non-passing grade or at the discretion of the Instructor and Program Manager. A minimum passing mark for all tests/exams is 70%. If a student is required to rewrite a test the highest possible mark attainable is 70%. The Instructor will assess student attendance and overall academic performance to determine if a rewrite will be permitted. A maximum of 2 rewrites are permitted during the entire PSW program. In the case that a rewrite does not meet the 70% requirement, there is a credit recovery process for that module that may include an essay, assignment and/or test portion. Proof of knowledge must be


12 | P a g e

provided by the student for each module in order to continue. The credit recovery will count as their second rewrite. Any further need for rewrites must be discussed with the Program Manager and decisions will be made on a case by case basis. Course Materials

All materials given to students will be done one time only. If any classroom materials are lost, a cost will be incurred to replace them.

Academic misconduct Assignments must be typed. Any assignment may be returned if the Instructor is unable to easily evaluate the paper. Please do not email your assignments to your Instructor. Plagiarism of any kind is not acceptable.

Plagiarism occurs when an individual intentionally or unintentionally, cheats by representing another person’s words, facts, ideas, translations, images (photographs,

artwork, graphs, etc.) or audio as their own by not giving credit to the creators.

Plagiarism is academic theft which has legal and employment implications

WCDSB Plagiarism Guideline Grades 9 to 12, 2006-2007 Consequences of Plagiarism are very serious and are posted in the classroom. This will be carefully reviewed by the Instructor. Please refer to the WCDSB AP Memo # APC017-Plagiarism and Cheating Guidelines. Assignments are due by the start of the class on the assigned date. Assignments must be completed and handed in on the deadline. Each day late will have 10% marks deducted including weekends and holidays and a after a week late the assignment will no longer be accepted. It is necessary for the student to contact the Instructor ahead of the deadline if there are difficulties in completing the assignment. Any assignments that are done in the cooperative experience must not have any client identifying information. When students work in group assignments throughout the program, it is each member’s responsibility to have an equal role in the group. All students must review the completed work before submission/presentation. Students must communicate with the Instructor prior to the due date, if there are any concerns regarding the group process.


13 | P a g e

Health Status All students must submit a completed St. Louis Medical Assessment Form (up-to-date immunization at the start of the program. The 2-step TB testing or proof of 2-step with current 1-step if 2-step is more than a year old. The flu shot during October – March for cooperative placement requirements.

It is important that the students in this program have good overall physical, mental and emotional health. If you have serious or ongoing health issues that would necessitate frequent time off, or have difficulty with any of the physical, mental or emotional requirements involved with this kind of work, please consider this carefully before starting this program. We do not provide any “light duty” or “modified” alternatives. You will be asked to leave the program if you are not able to fulfill your commitments. Depending on the situation you may be able to reapply at a later date. It is understood that you have signed the Personal Information Sheet at an Intake Information session and that you are physically and mentally fit and submitted a medical assessment from your physician indicating your fit for work status.

If something happens once you have started the program, you should be prepared to submit a doctor’s note confirming that you are physically or mentally able to continue with the program. Documented illness does not mean that the student does not have to adhere to the attendance policy. Two photocopies of the proof for your health status and immunizations must also be submitted to your Instructor.

Flu Shot All students in this program are required to have a flu shot before they are permitted to go to facility placement. Flu shots are available free of charge at numerous providers from approximately November to March.

Students with anaphylactic allergies to the flu shot must arrange to obtain the alternate from their physician and provide specific documentation of this type of allergy. Please be aware that not all LTC homes will permit students to do their cooperative placement without the flu shot. All other students that do not have an anaphylactic allergy to the flu shot will not be allowed to attend their co-op placement without verification of the flu shot. Two photocopies of the proof must also be submitted to your Instructor.

TB Testing All students in this program are required to have a 2-step TB test (Mantoux Test) before they are permitted to go to facility placement. The TB test is available from the Public Health Department and from various clinics. There may be a fee for this. Students with a history of positive TB test must arrange to provide documentation of this and will be required to show


14 | P a g e

evidence of a clear chest x ray. Any other reason for non-compliance must be brought to the teacher’s attention immediately. Students will not be allowed to attend their co-op placement without verification of the TB test. Two photocopies of the proof must also be submitted to your Instructor.

Any student with a positive chest x ray cannot go to placement.

Hepatitis B Currently, it is not a requirement of the program, however we strongly suggest that you consider having a hepatitis inoculation. It is available from your family physician or the health unit for a fee. You will need to provide two photocopies to your Instructor.

First Aid and CPR Training All PSW students are required to take a 16-hour minimum Standard First Aid with HCP-CPR course. (HCP – Health Care Provider). If you have some other level of CPR training, please contact your provider and enquire how you can upgrade to the HCP level. This must be completed prior to the start of the PSW program and a copy of the certificate given to your teacher. If you are already certified (and it does not expire before the end of the program) You will need two photocopies of the proof to be submitted to your Instructor.

Student Documents All academic testing is kept for two years. All other documentation including copies of police checks, immunizations, Tb testing and CPR/first aid copies are shredded after the last day of class. Please keep your originals safe as we will not be able to assist you with any of these documents once you have left the course.

Name Tags You will be provided with one name tag. If you lose or damage your tag, you will be required to replace it at a cost to you of approximately $15.00. Name tags are mandatory in facility placement. Their use in community is up to the community agency where you are placed.

Smoking Smoking is not permitted anywhere on school property. This includes the parking lot and in your car both at the school and at the placements you attend. Students will be suspended if caught smoking. Suspensions will affect your attendance and possible continuation in this program. Smoking while in placement will be addressed by your co-op Instructor or placement supervisor in community. Please remember that many of your clients will not tolerate the smell


15 | P a g e

of smoke on your clothes or person – in fact there are placements that will refuse to take students that smoke.

Eating and Drinking Eating is not permitted in the classroom during class. You may bring drinks into the classroom but please remember that you are responsible for disposing of all garbage and wiping down the desk.

Guidelines for Lab & Cooperative Skills Students must demonstrate consistent performance in skills which will indicate the student’s knowledge and safety for the care of clients and families in accordance with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and LTC and MTCU VLO’s and the agencies policies. The student will be asked to leave the setting if student behavior interferes with the learning process and/or jeopardizes the safety of others or causes undue distress. The student will need to meet with the Program Manager for possible reentry into the setting. Students must meet satisfactory assessments in order to stay in the program. The outcome may be removal from the PSW program based on the student assessments. Students must comply with Health and Safety regulations, or if they mishandle equipment in either an unsafe or abusive manner will be asked to leave the labs or cooperative placement.

Skills Testing Students will be expected to show an understanding of infection control and safety practices and complete a range of skills showing knowledge of mobility and personal hygiene needs. Students must obtain a passing grade in this testing phase before being permitted to attend the co-op in long term care. It is imperative that students understand how to meet their clients’ mobility and personal hygiene needs while considering safety always. For the students who are not successful in the testing phase, a second testing will be arranged and provided for a $50 fee.

Co-op Paperwork It is the responsibility of the student to complete and hand in all paperwork concerning co-op placement and anything else required to your co-op instructor in a timely manner, often several months before placement date. If any of the required insurance or evaluation forms are not in on time this may affect your placement, your hours and your mark. Practicum guidelines/expectations are clear, please review them frequently.


16 | P a g e

Co-op Rules and Regulations All students are expected to read and know the rules pertaining to co-op placements. It is your responsibility to ask for clarification if it is needed while still in the classroom during the preparation period. If the rules are not followed, such as notifying the agency/Instructor of any absences or immediately calling the Instructor in the case of an injury, then the student may forfeit the term and any hours completed to date. The student must contact the Program Manager to initiate discussion about returning to the program.

Students in Part time classes must be available Monday through Thursday for facility coop.

All students must be available in community Monday through Friday both days and evenings.

Co -op and Skills lab Dress Code Students will be expected to wear clean, mostly white duty shoes or running shoes. Shoes must be closed toed, closed heeled with anti-slip and no mesh material, they need to be durable enough to prevent injury to the foot. Duty shoes/running shoes are not worn outside on the street. They must be put on after arrival to facility. You are not permitted to wear jewelry, except for plain wedding bands and one stud earring in your ear lobes only. No chains, necklaces or bracelets. No facial jewelry (nose, lip, tongue or eyebrow piercings), minimal makeup is permitted and no scents. Hair must be back off your face and up off your shoulders. Hair colour should be natural and intense “fashion shades” are not acceptable. Fingernails should be clean, short and neatly trimmed. The definition of “short” is that when you look from the palm side of your hand, you should not see the fingernail. No artificial and /or acrylic nails are permitted. Beards should be kept tidy and well-trimmed. The Instructor may use her discretion to ask a student to cover tattoos that may be perceived as offensive during Co-op. Personal cleanliness includes oral hygiene, bathing daily, use of deodorant/antiperspirant and hand washing after eating and using the restrooms.

All students will wear the St Louis designated unaltered clean uniform while in facility co -op placement and Skills Lab. It is as important that you not wear a soiled uniform in public.

The uniform for the community session will be determined by your placement agency. Homecare usually requires a uniform, while group homes prefer neat casual clothing to promote the home environment. Please make sure that you find out what the expected clothing will be from your instructor or placement agency before you start your placement hours. The decision about wearing your nametag in community is decided by the placement agency, not by the student. The following clothing is not acceptable for placement as a student of St. Louis: jeans, tights and leggings, sweatpants, tracksuits, warm-up suits, collarless t-shirts,


17 | P a g e

revealing necklines or shirt skirts. Clothing choices for community placements that do not require a uniform should be appropriate business casual attire.

Chewing gum is not permitted in the lab and placement settings.

Food and beverages are allowed only in staff designated areas during placement. It will be important to find out the arrangements for breaks and meal breaks as each home has specific areas for students.

It will be necessary to follow the Instructors lead with regards to your coats, knapsacks, lab supplies etc.

PSW Confidentiality Policy It is important that PSW students hold in confidence, all information of a personal nature that is discussed or come to their attention while in the PSW Program. All students are required to sign a Confidentiality Agreement.

This could include information revealed about clients, their families and staff while attending their co-op placement, information that is learned during classroom discussions and all personal information learned about colleagues in the PSW Program. It is important to remember that information gained in some of these situations may be discussed as part of their education in a professional manner in the classroom setting or post conference only. Any other discussions would be considered a breach of confidence and possibly reason for removal from this program.

**Students are not allowed to take pictures in the classroom or on placement. **

CESBA Final Exam The final exam takes place on the last day of school after completion of the community placement hours. If you have not given your Instructor your skills passbook, you are required to bring it (with all completed hours clearly verified and signed off) to the exam. Any student who has not submitted their skills book for the confirmation of hours will not be permitted to write the final exam. You must obtain a 70% on this examination.

Please remember that you are not finished your program until the completion of the Final Exam and results. Please do not schedule holidays or work hours for this day.


18 | P a g e

Graduation St Louis PSW Program invites all PSW graduates to attend an Annual graduation ceremony. Students are awarded their PSW certificate from St. Louis and their PSW pin from the Ontario Long Term Care Association. Family and friends are invited to join the students in this special occasion. Information regarding scheduled times for graduation pictures will be made available to you. There is an opportunity to socialize after the ceremony with refreshments provided.

Your graduation package, which includes your certificate and PSW pin, will be available in the PSW office of the Kitchener campus following graduation for those students who were unable to attend. Photo ID will be required at this time. We will not mail out the grad packages to students.

References

Our instructors work with many students throughout the year and thorough reference checks take a lot of time out of their already very busy schedules. For this reason, the following stipulations are put on references.

If you would like to use an instructor as a work reference, you must ask permission first. If permission is not granted prior to receiving a call/email for reference, one will not be given. It is in the instructors right to deny a student a reference at any time.

We realize references are important when beginning your career, but they will be limited to 3 reference requests per student. No references will be given after 3 unless prior arrangements have been made with the instructor.

Also, instructors will only give references for students for a period of 6 months after the final CESBA exam. Any references after this time will not be given. If there are extenuating circumstances, an extension may be granted at the instructor’s discretion. Good luck on your exciting endeavors.


19 | P a g e

Appendices

A. Guidelines and Policies B. Code of Conduct C. Confidentiality Agreement


20 | P a g e

APPENDIX A WCDSB – PSW PROGRAM GUIDELINES AND POLICIES Please initial beside each policy title below to verify that you have thoughtfully and purposively read all the requirements outlined in the WCDSB PSW Student Handbook and fully understood each.

A. Attendance/lateness _____

B. Missed Tests/exams policy _____

C. Test/exam rewrites _____

D. Code of conduct/cell phone use /social media _____

E. Withdrawal/ Readmission _____

F. Confidentiality _____

G. Boundaries ______

H. Academic Dishonesty _____

I. Health requirements (flu shot, TB skin test, health form) ____

J. Co-op and skills lab dress code _____

K. Marks _____

L. Refund Policy ______

Student name: ______________ Student signature: _________________ Date: _______________ The following two documents – The Code of Conduct and Confidentiality Agreement must be completed as prescribed. Detach from the Handbook. This document will be placed in the student’s file.


21 | P a g e

APPENDIX B WCDSB – PSW PROGRAM STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

I, ______________________________, agree to the following as a general guideline and policy as a student of the WCDSB PSW Program:

1. Contribute to the classroom, clinical and co-op environment for all students, fellow-staff, instructors, clients and their families that include respect, tolerance and empathy for differences and human dignity.

2. In all matters and always maintain a standard of behaviour and care which is keeping with the skills that are within my scope.

3. Consistently strive for a high standard of professional responsibility and achievement. 4. Work collaboratively with fellow students, instructors and clinical and co-op placement

personnel. This includes taking direction and constructive criticism in a professional and respectful manner to achieve WCDSB PSW Program goals.

5. At all times conduct myself with honesty, integrity, diligence and transparency. 6. Maintain confidentiality with regards to fellow students, instructors, WCDSB, any clinical

and or co-op placement and its staff. This includes comments made on Facebook, e-mails, Instagram, Snapchat, text messages etc. See attached confidentiality form.

7. Advise instructors and clinical/co-op supervisor if I witness any of the above not being followed by a fellow student.

8. To adhere to the guidelines, requirements, regulations and policies outlined on the student information package and student handbook with regards to WCDSB and PSW Program.

I have read the above code of conduct, student handbook, confidentiality form and understand and agree to abide by the guidelines set forth in each. Name of Student: __________________ Signature: __________________ Name of Instructor: ______________________ Date: __________________________ This document will be placed in the student’s file.


22 | P a g e

APPENDIX C WCDSB – PSW PROGRAM STUDENT CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

All students participating in this program may have access to confidential information during the classroom, clinical or cooperative education components of the program, and are required to sign this confidentiality agreement. The agreement acknowledges that any violation of this confidentiality policy will be grounds for disciplinary action, including dismissal. 1. During my association with the classroom and any institutions, I may have access to

information and material relating to patients, medical staff, employees or other individuals which is of a private and confidential nature.

2. At all times, I shall respect the privacy and dignity of patients, employees and all associated individuals.

3. I shall treat all administrative, financial, patient, employee and other records as confidential information and I will protect them to ensure full confidentiality. I shall not read records or discuss, divulge, or disclose such information unless it pertains to direct care that I am involved in, or for a legitimate purpose. This does not apply to information in the public domain.

4. I shall ensure confidential information is not inappropriately accessed, or released either directly by me, or by my signature or security access to premises or systems.

5. I shall only access, process and transmit confidential information using hardware and software, and other authorized equipment, as required by the duties of my position.

6. I shall not post any information pertaining to the WCDSB, the PSW Program, its instructors, fellow classmates, patients, employees or institutions unless authorized to do so. This includes but is not limited to Facebook, MSN, texting, BBM, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and e-mail.

7. I understand and agree to abide by the conditions outlined in this agreement, and they will remain in force even if I cease to have an association with the WCDSB, the PSW Program, and any clinical or coop institutions.

I have read and understand the above policies and guidelines and agree to abide by them. Name of Student: ________________ Signature: ________________________ Name of Instructor: _______________________ Date: __________________________ This document will be placed in the student’s file.