UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM
GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLINICAL PROGRAM

REVISED 2006

Students in the Athletic Training Clinical Program are required to adhere to the following policies and procedures. These are supplemented and/or updated through handouts, posted notices, meetings, and other forms of communication and education. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES CAN RESULT IN PROBATION, SUSPENSION, AND/OR DISMISSAL FROM THE PROGRAM AND AFFECT YOUR CLINICAL GRADE. If you have any questions or comments, contact the athletic training program director or clinical coordinator.

AFFILIATE / ALLIED ROTATIONS: We currently have four affiliate sites (North Colorado Sports Medicine/ Platte Valley High School, Northridge High School, and Windsor High School) that clinical athletic training students rotate through for a period of five weeks. For each rotation you must submit a weekly log of your experiences due one week after completion of your rotation. You must dress professionally, (shirt and name tag, no jeans) and communicate with your supervising ACI ahead of time to set your schedule. Athletic training students will typically work 20-25 hours per week during rotations. You are to act professionally, follow all confidentiality and ethical standards set forth by UNC and the affiliate setting and the NATA. You must be supervised at all times by the supervising ACI. At the end of your rotation you must complete an affiliate/allied site evaluation form as well as a clinical supervisor evaluation form, to be turned into the curriculum director. All UNC policies and procedures apply, as well as those set forth by each site.

ATTIRE - Is directly related to your job performance because of the image you project to the athlete, students, parents, and community. You are representing a University sponsored program; AND the profession of ATHLETIC TRAINING. All athletic training students are issued shirts and these are to be worn while working in the athletic training room. Additional shirts can be purchased at your cost. Open-toed shoes (sandals, flip-flops, etc.) are not permitted for safety and efficiency reasons, shoes are to be worn at all times. Shorts and jeans are not permitted for competitions (they are permitted for practices and daily work, no cut-offs). Hats are not to be worn in the training room. It is UNC policy that no apparel can be worn unless it is UNC (hats, sweats, sweatshirts). Again, the overall intent is for you to dress professionally and represent positively your University and your prospective profession. Facial hair and facial piercing are not allowed while working in the training room or traveling on trips. Stud earrings only are allowed. Again this is for your safety as well as your professional appearance. When traveling on a team trip, you must adhere to any additional guidelines as set by the Coach of that sport.

BUILDING SECURITY - Any time the athletic training room is occupied, the door is to be kept unlocked. If you are the last to leave, all cabinets and doors should be checked and locked. Lights should be turned off. If the external building doors are locked, re-check that they lock when you leave. DO NOT allow anyone to enter a locked building. YOU will be responsible for them if you do so. If the external door is locked, do not use rocks or anything to jam the door open. Either get it open through Facilities and Operations or post a notice informing athletes to knock to be let in. You ARE NOT permitted in the building for any activity after it has been locked unless prior approval is obtained. When the building closes, you must also leave unless you are still performing Athletic Training duties. Make sure that both doors to the athletic training room are locked when you leave.

CARE OF WATER JUGS, COOLERS, ETC. - Following use, coolers should be cleaned in the janitors closet or other designated area and stored in the wet area in the athletic training room. Overly hot water will cause plastic to warp. Whirlpools are not to be used for cleaning of this equipment. Proper sanitary methods for filling cups should be utilized to avoid any possibility of illness. Coolers and Jugs should be carried; NOT dragged. If you loan out a cooler or jug, it should be recorded. It is your responsibility to follow up on this return.

CLEANING OF THE ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM - Is YOUR responsibility. Everyone gives a hand, though new students in the program will tend to do more. Refer to daily duties handout or consult with your ACI on what needs to be done. Show some initiative and take pride in your work area and equipment. Don’t expect others to do your responsibilities for you. Clean facilities are essential in a health care facility. Following a competition or practice, the training room must be clean. Utilize approved cleaning methods, and follow OSHA guidelines for cleaning.

CLINICAL HOUR LOG - On a daily basis you are to record your clinical hours and describe in detail your activities. This includes whether the hours involve working with upper extremity injuries, lower extremity injuries or equipment intensive sports. If assigned to the athletic training room those are recorded as athletic training room hours. All hours are recorded as athletic training room hours. The time spent out on the practice or game field or court is logged in the specific injury category (see additional handout for specific directions). Only actual working hours are counted; not travel time or time you come in late or leave early. Check your daily work schedule. Quality productive hours should be your goal. Logs are to be turned into your ACI, Monday, 6 pm at the LATEST of the following week for verification. The log week runs from Monday to Sunday. Failure to turn in log sheets on time will result in a warning with the hours counted, the second time hours are not turned in on time and correct, you will not receive credit for the week and may be issued an assignment. Log sheets that are repeatedly turned in late can result in additional duties, affect your clinical grade or possible suspension may occur. All information at the top of the hour sheet must be filled in completely, or hours will not be counted. You must write neatly and add correctly.

CLINICAL SUPERVISION– All athletic training students, regardless of their semester or clinical site are to be supervised by an approved clinical instructor (ACI) or clinical instructor (CI). Supervision is defined as “constant visual and auditory interaction between the athletic training student and the approved clinical instructor (ACI)”. Opportunities must be provided for immediate evaluation and feedback from the ACI/CI and if necessary be able to intervene on behalf of the athletic training student. If at any time you are asked to perform independently without the direct supervision of an ACI or CI you are inform the program director immediately. In the event that you are unsupervised you are to only perform those duties that a first responder would perform (emergency management).

CLINICAL SUPERVISOR EVALUATION – At the end of your clinical rotations you are to complete a clinical supervisor / instructor evaluation form. Those forms, once completed, are to be turned into the athletic training program director. Each evaluation will be shown to the individual clinical supervisor at the end of each four-week rotation. You can remain anonymous on each of your evaluations. Your clinical supervisor should give you the evaluation to be completed or you can pick up one from the curriculum director.

COACHES - Proper communication is essential to a positive athletic trainer / coach relationship. The coach should be kept informed on the injury status of all their athletes. Be early for practices and competitions. Prior to leaving for the field or to speak with a coach, check with athletic trainers in charge for updated information on injured or status athletes. Coaches want to be informed, therefore accurate and up to date information must be given to them. Make sure the coach knows you are there. It is the certified athletic trainer or senior athletic training student’s duty assigned to practice, to inform the coaches of player status. Common courtesy, respect, and ethics shall prevail. Do not become a "clubhouse lawyer" with the athletes. Any questions or problems are to be directed to the head athletic trainer.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE POLICY – Should any athletic training student contract a communicable disease, they will not be allowed to perform clinical athletic training services as part of the educational program until approved to return by the head team physician.  Athletic training students must declare their status to their ACI as well as to either the program director or the clinical coordinator as soon as their condition is diagnosed.

COMPETENCIES- These competencies will be given to you in each of your clinical practicum courses. You will meet with your ACI to sign off on the competencies after they have been taught to you and practiced. The complete list of NATA competencies and clinical proficiencies can be found in the athletic training student office upstairs, or on the NATA educational web site at http://www.nataec.org/html/competencies.html. It is the responsibility of the athletic training student, with the help and guidance of the ACI to be competent in the required areas. Students must practice with older athletic training students prior to being checked off. Information towards becoming competent can be obtained through class, workshops, guest speakers, assignments, meetings and your notes and books.

COMPUTER TERMINAL - Is located athletic training office upstairs. Major athletic training uses are for word processing, injury record keeping, UNCATS use, administrative matters, and education. All athletic training students should be knowledgeable in computer operations and input. Access to the library system is available. Security is essential. Personal use of the terminal located in the main athletic training room is not permitted for undergraduate students. These computers are mainly for office work and take precedence over personal use.

COPY MACHINE (BH) – The copy machine in BH is not for personal use. You may use the copy machine for athletic training use only (dr. notes, physicals, rehab protocols, etc.). Do not copy articles or sections of books from the student office.

DRUGS - ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, GAMBLING, AND OTHER ILLEGAL OR ABUSED SUBSTANCES - ARE NOT permitted in the athletic training room or utilized while you are on duty. If you show up to work or travel under the influence, you will be automatically suspended and are subject to dismissal from the clinical program. Excessive personal use that affects your performance are grounds for probation and/or dismissal from the clinical program. The Code of Ethics of the NATA makes it unethical to use or dispense any illegal substance. This includes alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, amphetamines, stimulants, depressants, anabolic steroids, tobacco products and other related compounds. Athletic training students are subject to any UNC and/or NCAA Drug Usage Policy and Testing Program. Athletic Training is an Allied Health Profession. Act accordingly. If you need help in dealing with a substance abuse problem, the counseling center is available for your use. The NCAA has made gambling illegal for athletes and athletic personnel, this includes you.

EVALUATIONS- Athletic training students are formally evaluated a minimum of two times during a semester. The clinical instructors perform one mid semester evaluation, with communication to the head and assistant athletic trainers. An end of the semester evaluation is also conducted with the head and assistant athletic trainers, which will evaluate the student’s performance for the whole semester, based on your semester goals and competencies. Failure to meet semester goals and competencies will affect your evaluations. This evaluation includes an evaluation from affiliate and allied sites, if applicable. At this time the athletic training student is given a recommendation for the athletic training program, as well as things to work on for the following semester. It is to your advantage to thoroughly understand your evaluations. Do not wait until the end of the semester to speak with your supervisors about any problems or questions that arise. You will not be able to make adjustments to your performance at the end of a semester, prior to grades.

GATOR- The University has provided these carts for athletic training room use. These carts are to be used for transporting injured athletes, supplies and equipment delivery, and other functions as permitted by the athletic trainer in charge. Unauthorized use is not permitted. Drive carts on appropriate routes to the practice fields. These carts are not to be used by athletes or other personnel for "joy riding". Do not speed, use caution when approaching the building, there are other teams and recreation teams using practice fields, do not interfere. The gator is to be kept out at the football practice shed. These carts can be driven on the track, please use good judgment and do not speed in the gator.  Keys are to be kept in the athletic training room office when the carts are parked. Any mechanical or safety malfunctions are to be reported as soon as possible for corrections.

HOME COMPETITIONS - Make sure you are there in plenty of time to prepare your team. This will vary with the individual sport and rehab needs. Check the schedule,  senior athletic training student you are working with, or speak with coach if you are not sure what time to show up. The time posted on the schedule is the time of the competition. Make sure all needed equipment is available. Recheck emergency plans relative to telephone, physician on call, etc. Be a cordial host to the visiting athletic trainer. Take care of their needs. If an athletic trainer is not traveling, check with the visiting coach as to any special needs for their team and your availability. Make sure you are properly dressed for a public event. This includes athletic training shirts and slacks and your nametag. Following any competition, make sure arrangements have been made for any injury follow-up, next day rehab, or practice plans. Finish any records and clean BEFORE you secure, and close the training room.

INJURY INSURANCE - UNC provides supplemental insurance to cover injuries that occur during organized practice or competition during the competitive season. This insurance is of the excess type. All athletes must have primary insurance that covers athletic injuries. This will be very important during the screening process. Be aware of injuries that are non-athletic related. Make sure this is properly recorded and the head or assistant athletic trainer is notified. There is a large amount of administrative work and frustration in getting both athletes and parents to cooperate in claim filing, etc. Do not give out false information. UNC student health insurance does not cover intercollegiate athletic injury. Make sure you communicate any concerns or questions to the athletic training staff.

KEYS – Keys to the athletic training room are issued to athletic training students that have responsibilities that require them. Keys are a privilege and not a right. A refundable deposit can be required for those authorized to have keys. Keys are NOT to be loaned, given to others, or copied. Common keys are to be kept on the proper hooks in the office when not in use. It is very important that these keys are returned to the proper location. Losing these keys will result in losing our privilege to have them. DO NOT LEAVE THEM IN YOUR POCKET, OR TAKE THEM HOME WITH YOU. Abuse of the key privilege will result in your forfeit of their use to you.

LAUNDRY - Is located in the equipment room. On a daily basis dirty training room towels, elastic bandages etc. are to be taken for cleaning. Towels are put in the yellow basket near the door and wraps are in the laundry bag on the blue table near the door. Clean laundry is to be picked up daily also. Athletic training room towels are not for athlete’s personal use. The athletic training budget is charged for any missing towels. Make sure athletes are turning in used wraps rather than leaving them at home or in a locker. Check the locker room after practice for any wraps left on the floor.

LIABILITY INSURANCE – All athletic training students must purchase liability insurance and show proof at orientation. Insurance websites are located on the athletic training web site.

LIBRARY - MICHENER LIBRARY- Holds the largest collection of periodicals, books, and other materials on sports injury in the state of Colorado . Make use of these materials for your education as well as inter-library loan, searches, and other services available. It is very important we use the library or we will lose it. The Medical School Library in Denver will also have journals and books not available at UNC. Make a visit there or utilize interlibrary loan.

LIGHTENING SAFETY- Weather changes significantly and quickly in Colorado , the NCAA has issued a statement on lightening safety (see handout from SES 381). Your responsibility as an athletic trainer is to provide a safe playing environment, you may have to make a decision about practice and inform the coach. Current recommendation is to terminate practice or play when lightening is six miles away (flash to bang time of 30 seconds, 5 sec a mile). When working an outside sport you must take the lightening detector out with you. Set the meter for 8-12 miles. When reading 3-8 miles you should send the athletic teams in. Refer to the NCAA handbook regarding lightening safety.

LIGHTENING DETECTOR- The lightening detector is to be taken out to outside practice (FB / SOC in the Fall and TK, SB, and FB in the spring). The athletic trainers in charge of those sports practicing on the south fields and the track must communicate as to which sport has the detector. That athletic trainer will be in charge of communicating with the other sports when the threat of lightening is present. In-services on its use will be conducted each semester. When not in use the detector is located on top of the medicine cabinet.

LOCKER - Is issued to you for your personal clothing, books, etc. Clothing, backpack, books are not to be kept in the athletic training room or back room. DO NOT expect the equipment room to be loaning you cold weather gear. Come prepared. You should also have shorts in your locker for practical practice purposes.

MAILBOX - You will have a mail and information slot in the cabinet in the athletic training student office upstairs. Check this as well as the athletic training bulletin board for announcements and messages that pertain to you. YOU are responsible for keeping this room super clean and organized.

MEETINGS - It is expected that you will be in attendance on time for all meetings, workshops, and other Athletic Training activities, including UNCATS speakers and presentations. FAILURE TO ATTEND SCHEDULED MEETINGS WILL AFFECT YOUR CLINICAL PRACTICUM GRADE. Scheduled meetings will try to avoid other academic areas, but conflicts will arise. You are responsible for all information presented. If you arrive late for a meeting it is possible that you will not be allowed to participate. BE ON TIME OR EARLY!!

NAME TAGS- Athletic training students are provided a nametag when they enter the program. The cost for this nametag is $8.00. Athletic training students are required to wear their nametag while working in the athletic training room, at clinical sites and on trips. This nametag is in addition to the required athletic training shirt. Lost name tags are the responsibility of the athletic training student and must be replaced within 2-3 weeks of being lost.

NATIONAL ATHLETIC TRAINERS ASSOCIATION - Is the professional organization for this allied health profession. First semester students are encouraged to join as student members. Students beyond their first semester are strongly encouraged to join.

BOARD OF CERTIFICATION (BOC)- add web site and cost.  Is a separate organization that determines and administers certification programs and examinations for the entry-level athletic trainer. It also administers continuing education standards for certified athletic trainers to be recertified. It is the student’s responsibility to become aware of all certification requirements, application procedures, and application deadlines.

NUTRITION - A sound nutritional program will contribute to overall health and sports performance. UNC does not endorse nutritional fads, mega supplementation, unsafe, unsound, or unproved ergogenic aids. Those that are banned by the NCAA for athletic use are also banned for athletic trainers' use, you must set a good example. A sound scientific education in nutrition is essential for you. Do not pass on any fads, testimonials, or unproven advice to athletes. Refer any specific questions or concerns to the head or assistant athletic trainer. YOUR GOAL IS TO EDUCATE YOURSELF AND ATHLETES IN SOUND NUTRITIONAL PRACTICES. The NATA has a very informative web site:

OBSERVATIONS - Students interested in the Athletic Training Clinical Program are required to do observations. This is an opportunity for the student to develop a better understanding of the profession. This is also a time for the athletic training program to observe them. If you are assigned a student to observe you, you are to check with the athletic trainer in charge, and perform your normal duties. The student is observing what you normally do. Answer any questions and explain what you are doing as long as it does not interfere with athlete care. If it is a slow day find something to do or check with the athletic trainer in charge. Upon completion you are to turn in a student observation form giving your opinions of the student observing you in respect to attentiveness, understanding, interest, etc. Pay particular attention to student’s goals, commitment and potential. This is to be a constructive evaluation, be professional.

OFFICE (in athletic training room) - Is for the use of the athletic training program. Athletes are not permitted in the office area unless approved to do so. The office is to be kept in an orderly fashion. UNLESS DIRECTED OTHERWISE USE IS PRIMARILY FOR STAFF ATHLETIC TRAINERS. There is a student office located on the second floor.

OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS - Are kept in a cabinet that is locked at all times. The key is to be kept in the athletic training room office. Medications are not to be given out indiscriminately. There must be a stated history, need, and approval from the athletic trainer in charge. All over the counter medications are to be recorded in the proper manner. Check with your ACI PRIOR to dispensing any medication.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT - When at practice or competition, you are required to carry a few 3X3 or 2X2 sterile gauze pads, your scissors, and a pair of surgical gloves in a zip lock bag. Penlights are optional. For football, the field athletic trainer needs to have available a "Trainers Angel" or Riddell cutter to remove the facemask in a need on yourself to initially handle any situation.

PERSONAL CARS / BICYCLES - Are to be parked in appropriate university lots. Keep out of the "trophy case" area unless you have been instructed to do so. YOU are responsible for any UNC parking tickets if you do not follow the guidelines. UNC Loading Passes are to be used only when instructed. They are not to be used for personal use at any time. If used for practice or competitions they must be returned. Bicycles ARE NOT allowed in any university building.  Use designated bike racks or leave them at home.

PERSONAL HEALTH & SAFETY - Your personal health and safety is a prime concern. Practicing positive health attitudes will enhance your clinical performance. If you are ill, the student health center is available for your personal health needs or referrals. The counseling center is also available for psychological needs and academic assistance outside the athletic training room. Make sure you adhere to universal precautions when appropriate (see handout on Universal Precautions), they were developed for your protection. Hepatitis B vaccinations are required prior to admittance into the athletic training program (see handout on Hepatitis B vaccination). Use sound judgment and proper exercise techniques. Being efficient in body positioning and leverage will reduce the chances of injury. When at practice or competitions, be aware of surrounding activity so a student athlete does not injure you or by other circumstances. Any personal injuries occurring during your clinical experience should be reported to your supervising athletic trainer immediately. If you are sick you must report to the student health center. If contagious you will not be allowed to be in the athletic training room until you have been cleared by your physician.

PHYSICIANS - All physician appointments are to be made through the head or assistant athletic trainer. UNC has a fine group of team physicians that provide excellent sports medicine care and can be of assistance to your education. IT IS ASSUMED YOU WILL BE PUBLICLY SUPPORTIVE OF OUR TEAM PHYSICIANS' EFFORTS. Unless prior authorization is given, injuries are to be seen by our team physicians rather than family physicians, health center physicians, or physicians in other communities. If you go with an athlete to a team physician, besides transportation, you are to see that the proper information is given, appropriate forms signed and returned, and any notes recorded properly. You are expected to be able to provide proper history background and other pertinent information to the physician. Students must complete a minimum of three observations. FAILURE TO ATTEND YOUR REQUIRED OBSERVATIONS WILL AFFECT YOUR CLINICAL PRACTICUM GRADE.

PHYSICIAN: ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM VISIT NOTES - It is important that accurate, detailed notes be taken. A staff certified athletic trainer or graduate assistant athletic trainer will coordinate and evaluate the note taking and entry of the students. Athletic training students are required to attend and take sample notes. All information from visits is CONFIDENTIAL. Athletic trainers assigned note duty need to have notes in the computer within a week of the physician's visit. The computer located upstairs in the athletic training student office is used to input physician notes, the disk you get from Rawley. Physician visits are an educational opportunity for you that you must take advantage of. You must act and be professional at all times.

PHARMACY - Prescriptions from team physicians we will assist the athlete in filling them with their pharmacy card or through the student health center. We will not pay for Rx’s filled elsewhere, unless approved by an ATC. The athletic department pays for prescriptions for athletic injury incurred during the competitive season from an organized practice or competition. This does NOT INCLUDE general medical conditions or illnesses. If the athlete has a prescription card, it must be used. ALL OTHERS are the responsibility of the athlete. Check with the athletic trainer if you are unsure of the proper course of action. Receipts must be brought back to Shannon . ALL over the counter athletic training room medications are to be administered according to established procedure and MUST be recorded on the daily sheet. Aspirin and other analgesics are not given pre, during, or post activity unless prior approval is obtained. Prescription samples that are prescribed by the team physician are to be locked in the cabinet. They are only to be administered when a prescription is given, and distributed by the team physician. Refills should either be noted on the original prescription or ordered by the physician. If you have any questions or concerns ask the athletic trainer in charge.

PRIORITY OF CARE - Proper organization and judgment will insure that all athletes receive proper care. This will require extreme organization from the athletic trainer in charge of rehabilitation. During times when we are very busy, sports in the competitive season have priority over all others. For example in fall, Volleyball, Football, and Soccer have priority. Schedule other sports and long term rehabs during less busy periods. Pay attention to practice times so you will be able to plan accordingly. If a student athlete comes in looking for care or info, at the minimum acknowledge their presence and let them know you will get to them soon. COMMUNICATION IS VERY IMPORTANT. If any problems develop with an athlete, do not hesitate to contact the athletic trainer in charge. OVERALL ALL ATHLETES SHOULD RECEIVE EQUAL AND COMPETENT CARE.

PROMPTNESS - It is assumed you will be in the athletic training room at your assigned time ready to work and learn. You are not to leave until your scheduled time unless directed otherwise. Horseplay, lounging, and social activities should not tolerated by you or athletes. Do not allow athletes that have no reason to be in the athletic training room to remain there, it is ASSUMED that you will perform all duties in a prompt, efficient, competent, and professional manner and within SPECIFIC POLICY AND PROCEDURES.

RELEASE OF INFORMATION - Pertaining to the previous or current injury/illness status of an athlete is not permitted. ALL inquiries by the press, professional scouts, agents, and others are to be referred to the head or assistant athletic trainers. ALL training room discussion relative to specific injury care is CONFIDENTIAL. Do not start or spread false information. Athletes are NOT to look at their files unless prior approval is given.

RECORDS - Are to be accurate, concise, and up to date. Athletic trainers given record assignments are expected to complete their assignments promptly. An athlete’s file is confidential and not to be shown to others. An athlete requesting to see their own file should be referred to the head or assistant athletic trainer. Proper recording format and terminology are to be used AT ALL TIMES. All participant's status, evaluative progress and rehab notes are to be completed daily. All UNC and NCAA injury forms are to be properly completed. You must recheck things such as medical histories to see that all information is adequately given. Refer to terminology and injury/illness recording handouts. Check Injury/Illness Rehab sheet DAILY so that you are aware of athletic training room activity regardless of your athletic training room assignments.

SCHEDULING OF ATHLETIC TRAINER STUDENTS – Rotations are assigned by the clinical coordinator for the semester. It is the responsibility of your assigned clinical supervisor to meet with you to schedule your weekly hours. This will change every six weeks for those clinical students in their 1-3 semesters. Fourth and fifth semester athletic training students will remain with the same clinical supervisor for the semester. It is assumed you will make every attempt to keep your afternoons free of other classes. (CLINICAL PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE IS A CLASS ALSO). Check when conflicts arise. Assignments are posted on the calendar and bulletin board a month in advance. Check with your clinical supervisor for conflicts. You are responsible to the specific certified athletic trainer in charge of that area. ALL initial evaluations and rehab or changes in rehab programs are to be approved by the certified athletic trainer in charges. NO FREE-LANCING. DO NOT play favorites; provide quality care equally to all athletes while recognizing their individual personalities and needs. Obviously last minute changes will occur at times. Other than legitimate emergency (notify athletic training room) you are expected to work when scheduled. You need to organize your study time and other needs. Off days will be posted as the schedule permits. Specific requested off days should be requested well in advance. Time off for next day exams will normally not be permitted. (You were not notified of the exam date the night before.) IF YOU CANNOT GIVE A COMMITMENT TO YOUR ATHLETIC TRAINING EDUCATION AND THE UNC PROGRAM, PERHAPS YOU SHOULD RECONSIDER YOUR GOALS AND MOTIVES FOR WANTING TO BE IN THIS PROGRAM AND PROFESSION.

SLING PSYCHROMETER - Readings are to be taken pre, mid, and post football /soccer practice. Readings are to be taken in the open and recorded on a piece of tape which is then taped to the blue kit and transferred to the proper forms once inside the athletic training room. Become familiar with the uses, procedures, and interpretations of the psychrometer in relation to heat stress and its prevention. Check your competencies.

STUDENT OFFICE - We have an office and study lounge for the athletic training students. This office is for you to use, for athletic training purposes, and physician visits. You are next to other offices and other professors; you must act in a professional manner, and keep the office clean. The computers in the office are for your use. Those students who need to do physician notes, rosters or are working with athletic training programs have priority over general word processing and class work. You may use the books in the lounge; you may NOT take them home without checking them out. You cannot copy from the book using the copy machine in BH. Check out of books is for 48 hours only, and must be recorded. The books are the property of head and assistant athletic trainers and the athletic training student club, they are to be taken care of or use of them will be discontinued. Announcements will be posted in the office. The Graduate Assistants will also use this office. Your athletic training room key will get you into the office. Receiving this key is a privilege, and not a right; you must be beyond your first semester and in good standing to receive a key. Those athletic training students not having a key will need to make arrangements with others to gain access. The outside doors to the offices will be locked after hours and arrangements will need to be made in advance for access after hours. Athletic training duties take precedence over other activities, so be considerate and do not procrastinate on assignments.

SUPPLIES - Are not infinite. Use as much to get the job done, but not overdone or wasteful. Do not waste tape or elastic products when ankle wraps or other materials will do. Become an informed consumer relative to use and price. You are expected to know the location and uses of all athletic training room equipment and supplies (this is a first semester competency). All equipment should be kept in a clean and workable condition. Any equipment that is not functioning properly should be reported. Supplies that are running low should also be noted. Any incoming supplies should be properly inventoried and stored. Older supplies should be utilized first. Athletes are NOT permitted to be in storage areas or cabinets; so see that THEY ARE NOT. Do not become valets to the athletes relative to supplies. You can say NO or check with the athletic trainer in charge. THERE WILL BE NO SPATTING OF SHOES.

SURGICAL OBSERVATION - Is part of the clinical program and is open to qualified students. You must be in your 3^rd semester (at times second), and be in good standing in the clinical program. ALL arrangements are made through the athletic training room only. Do not contact team physicians or their office. You will be required to turn in a typed report on your experience due within one-week post surgery. You are to also assist in the follow-up of the athlete, which may include hospital visits etc. This experience can be of value to you if put in the proper perspective. Realize there are other athletic training students besides yourself.

SWIMMING POOL - Is a beneficial rehab, conditioning and preventive tool. Proper supervision is essential for both safety and quality use. An athletic trainer or other qualified person must be present at all times during pool use. The pool key is located in the athletic training office. There should be a 2 to 1 ratio of athlete to athletic trainer in the pool. Make sure athletes shower prior to pool use. If a class or practice is in session check first with the instructor or coach for availability. Many times it is possible to use a corner or the deep end during other activity. Make sure you understand the exercises and program the athlete is to follow and include appropriate progressions. Make it a QUALITY TIME rather than going through the motions. Try to analyze the exercises that are being done. Flotation belts should be utilized for all deep-water activities. Horseplay is not allowed and floats, kickboards, etc. are to be used for rehab only. If an athlete is goofing around you must be able to say no and ask them to leave. When finished give the athlete further instructions and make sure the pool is secure. If a class or practice session is going on supervision is left to the person in charge. If not, you must make sure both doors are locked by physically checking them, not allowing anyone to enter pool. Clear out anyone that may have entered while you are there, and finally turn out the lights. You can create a potential major liability situation if the pool is not adequately supervised or secured. If used, return flotation belts to the athletic training room. Make sure pool rehab is properly recorded. (See additional handout)

TAPING, WRAPPING, WOUND CARE, EVALUATION, REFERRAL, REHAB, RECORDS - You are REQUIRED to use the proper procedures for these general areas as used at UNC: Taping style, use of ankle wraps. Bandages, sleeves, underwrap, wound and blister care, recording of injury/illness, knee, head, ankle, and other evaluations, stretching techniques, rehab procedures and progressions, and modality use. You are practicing skills AS WELL AS creating continuity from athletic trainer to athletic trainer. Specific procedures are outlined in handouts, meetings, instruction, and demonstration. Use common sense at all times. GENERAL RULE: IF YOU ARE NOT AUTHORIZED OR DO NOT KNOW HOW TO PERFORM SKILL OR PROCEDURE, ASK SOMEONE WHO DOES; THEN OBSERVE OR DO IT YOURSELF IF ABLE AND AUTHORIZED. DO NOT FAKE IT!!!

TELEPHONE - usage is for the purpose of communication pertaining to the Athletic Training program. Other uses are with permission of the athletic training staff. Unauthorized use is not permitted. Athletes ARE NOT to use the phone unless prior approval is obtained. Calls other than local are to be made collect or charged to a third party unless otherwise directed. When answering the phone identify where you are and who is speaking. (eg." Athletic Training, Mary speaking"). All messages are to be adequately recorded and posted on the various phone message boards. Get the name of the caller, number, and nature of call if applicable. The cellular phone should be taken to the appropriate activity and turned on and ready for use. Unauthorized use of the cellular phone IS NOT permitted. Make sure you are familiar with the operation of the cellular phone.

TRUCK - The University provides a vehicle for athletic training room use (a monthly and mileage fee is assessed to the athletic training budget.) The vehicle is to be used for transporting injured athletes, supply and equipment delivery, and other functions as permitted by the Athletic Trainer. Unauthorized use is not permitted. Authorized Athletic training students must have a valid driver’s license and have on file in the training room a copy of a statement verifying that you have insurance coverage. Unless this is done, you CANNOT drive the vehicle. When not in use the truck is to be parked at the West End of the "trophy case" parking area at Butler Hancock or in the spaces between Gunter and Gray Halls. Entrance to BH fields is the entrance off 17^th ave. On the field the truck is to be parked next to the storage building. There is to be no driving on the fields. When taking the truck to the track there is NO DRIVING ON THE TRACK, you may cross over on the wood planks, and then on the outside of the field. The truck is to be parked near gate 2, next to the ambulance, for football games. The truck will also be parked in the same location for track meets. When driving any UNC vehicle, it is assumed you will adhere to all driving laws of the State of Colorado or the state you are in and practice defensive driving techniques. Horseplay is not permitted. Obviously, alcohol or any other type of drug use is not allowed for the driver or any passenger. VIOLATION OF THIS WILL DROP YOU FROM THE CLINICAL PROGRAM. Keys are kept in the training room office when the truck is parked at BH. The vehicle is to be locked at night if kept at BH. When returning the truck to the Physical Plant, it should be parked and locked in the designated area and the keys are placed in the mail slot in the overhead door. If you have to unlock the entry gate, make sure you lock it when you leave, Gasoline is obtained at the Physical Plant pumps by contacting the motor pool personnel. Any mechanical or safety malfunctions are to be reported as soon as possible for correction. To fill up with gas, you need to go to the motor pool and give them the gas card ****** Mileage is to be recorded and entered into the log sheet on a daily basis, whenever you drive the truck. Log sheets are to be kept in the truck. If it is snowing or has snowed, the truck needs to be moved to the main parking lot so snow removal equipment can get in. You can park the truck in the service vehicle spot.

ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM BOOKS AND MATERIALS - are the personal property of the head and assistant athletic trainers. The major purpose is for their use and to partially assist you. However, THIS COLLECTION IS NOT TO REPLACE YOUR USE OF THE LIBRARY. If approved, materials can be checked out for a few days only. Record the appropriate info on the book checkout sheet. CHRONIC ABUSERS WILL LOSE THE PRIVILEGE.

ATHLETIC TRAINING STUDENT KITS - for field or travel use are to be kept stocked and stored in the appropriate location. They are not to be kept at home. Do not carry unneeded supplies. Refer to posted list of basic kit contents. Label a kit you have prepared for travel. All field kits are to be restocked following use. Teams traveling without an athletic trainer and requiring a kit are to be given a metal kit with basic supplies. NO medications of any type are to be put in a kit for a team without an athletic trainer traveling.

TRAVELING ON TRIPS - The University of Northern Colorado ATEP does not support unsupervised clinical education experiences, and as such does not support unsupervised travel of athletic training students.  Students may travel under the supervision of a UNC CI/ACI.  If this opportunity is afforded the student, all policies & procedures of the ATEP, and the associated team must be abided by.

TRAVEL FUND FOR ATHLETIC TRAINING STUDENTS - limited funds are available for qualified athletic training students to attend a professional meeting. (eg NATA national, District, State meetings) Financial assistance will usually involve all or part of a registration fee. Athletic training students that are recipients of NATA scholarships can be eligible for additional funding. General guidelines are as follows:

1.       Must have completed at least 1^st semester of clinical program.

2.       Must be in good academic and program standing.

3.       Must be student member of NATA.

4.       Must apply at least 60 days prior to scheduled meeting.

5.       Must attend meeting sessions.

6.       Must turn in a typed report on meeting experience.

Further information will be provided in workshops, handouts, etc.

If receiving money from UNCATS organization the same policies apply.

UNC ATHLETIC TRAINERS SOCIETY (UNCATS) - This club was established to enhance the educational opportunities for students pursuing an education athletic training. Athletic training students are expected to participate in all meetings and functions. All athletic training major students will be permitted to participate, but the clinical athletic training students will assist in the operations of the organization. First semester athletic training students are "provisional members" and are not eligible for money.

UNC COMPUTER- To be used for Dr. notes, rosters, A.D.A.M., power point and regular word processing and spread sheets. Internet and e-mail access will be available. Unauthorized loading of games or other software is prohibited. The printer is not to be used to print multiple copies of speeches and other presentation materials.

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS - are to be followed when caring for open wounds and disposing of dressing, gloves, etc. This includes practice and competition sites as well as the training room. Refer to handouts and your blood borne information on this for specifics. (See Handout)

VIDEO LIBRARY - A video library of relevant athletic training and sports injury information is located in the athletic training student office. These are available for athletic training students use within the training room or for check out. Use the check out sheet when you use any of these videos. Pirating is not allowed.

WALKIE TALKIES – We have six walkie – talkies which are kept in the athletic training office. These are to be used when working athletic events and practices and to communicate with the athletic training room. You must re-charge them after each use. They are not toys and are to be treated with care. Take the one assigned to your sport.

WAREHOUSE - Supplies including tape are kept at the warehouse in Parsons Hall. A running inventory is kept of what is in the warehouse and what has been removed. The oldest supplies are used first.

WEIGHT ROOM - is utilized for certain aspects of rehab. The athlete is to be supervised at all times. The same procedures for building security as utilized for the swimming pool is to be followed. You cannot open the weight room and allow a student athlete in without supervision. Rehab progressions are to be properly recorded on individual or daily records. Be professional and get your work completed.

AED – Automated External Defibrillator:

AED POLICY AND PROCEDURE

Sudden cardiac emergencies can occur anywhere and can occur at athletic events and practices. It is the policy of the University of Northern Colorado Athletic Training department to be prepared to handle such emergencies should they occur. The use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) has been shown to increase significantly the chance of survival during cardiac arrhythmias. Certified athletic trainers, athletic training students, and other personnel associated with the University of Northern Colorado trained and certified in the use of an AED, will be able to administer care and possibly early defibrillation to those experiencing a cardiac emergency.

Training

When caring for a victim of cardiac arrest you must be prepared to conduct a primary survey and administer CPR in conjunction with the AED unit. ATC, ATS’s must be current in their first aid and CPR skills and certified for AED administration. These skills are reviewed, practiced and certified by a trained instructor each semester. UNC team physician will be informed and review AED protocols on a yearly basis.

Storage and Care of the AED

The AED is stored in the BH athletic training room behind the check in desk, when not in use. The AED will be checked on a monthly basis per the check out sheet. The athletic training student responsible for the care of the AED will complete the check sheet, sign and date the sheet and then submit it for the head athletic trainer’s initials. Any problems or malfunction of the AED will be brought to the attention of the head athletic trainer immediately.

Priority of use:

The AED will be taken to all home athletic events. When there are multiple events occurring the event with the highest rise as determined by the NCAA and that event with the highest number of fans will determine the site of the AED, (be prepared to administer care to spectators). Communication must be established between ATC s and sites when multiple events are occurring. The AED is to be taken to the practice with the highest risk. The AED should be readily accessible and the location should be known to all ATC and ATS prior to the start of the event.

Protocol for use:

The AED is not intended for use on children under the age of 8 or less than 90lbs. The victim must be:

1.       in cardiac arrest or distress based on primary survey (unconscious, no respirations, no pulse)

2.       active EMS – 911, and perform life saving measures (CPR/1^st aid)

3.       apply AED to chest of victim – per protocol

4.       turn on AED and listen for voice prompts from the AED unit

5.       follow instructions