NOTICE
This Handbook is designed to be used by student athletic trainers and students working towards acceptance to the Athletic Training Education Program at Azusa Pacific University. The Handbook contains policies, procedures, guidelines, and relevant professional information to direct and inform the students working and learning in the Athletic Training Education Program . These materials are specific to the Athletic Training Education Program and operation of the athletic training services at Azusa Pacific University. Additionally, some of these policies are those of the institution or specifically from the Department of Athletics. Students serving internships at affiliate sites or other sites should adhere to the policies and procedures of those institutions/sites as stated by the supervising site athletic trainer.
All students accepted to the Athletic Training Education Program and those working to be accepted are responsible for completely learning and comprehending this Handbook. Deviation from the stated policies and procedures could constitute placing the student on probation in the major, suspension from clinical experiences, or revocation or disallowing clock hours for unacceptable work.
The information in the Handbook is intended to educate, guide, and protect the student, as well as provide consistency of service to the constituents served by athletic trainers at Azusa Pacific University.
Athletic Training is an allied health care profession. It is a service profession. Athletic Trainers care for the health needs of the physically active. It is important to always keep this in mind.
The student athletic trainer is a unique member of the Sports Medicine Team at Azusa Pacific University. As a result of the knowledge gained in the classroom and practical experience, student athletic trainers are able to provide immediate and follow-up care to the athletes under the direct supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer. This care allows the injured athlete to return to participation as quickly as possible within the limits of the injury.
The student athletic trainer must work to gain the respect and confidence of the athletes and coaches. This is accomplished through knowledge and communication. Decisions must be made in an objective manner with the athlete’s well being as the primary motivator. Decisions based on personal friendships or pressures to win may cause increased risk to the athlete and the loss of respect for the student athletic trainer. Certified Athletic Trainers must be notified when injuries occur. Coaches must also be kept informed on the status of their athletes on a daily basis. This communication establishes a rapport with the coach that is invaluable.
The student athletic trainer working with a team has become both a member of that team as well as an unofficial staff member. Loyalty to both the team and the medical staff is essential in progressing as a professional. At no time should criticism be directed at the coach, team members, fellow student athletic trainers, or members of the medical staff. Dissension, faster than any other factor, can destroy a team or program. If there is a problem, a Certified Athletic Trainer should be notified as soon as possible.
The time involved as a student athletic trainer can be overwhelming on occasion, but there is no greater teacher than experience. It is important to be involved and ask questions. The Certified Athletic Trainers and other medical personnel are available to help you learn, answer your questions, and challenge you.
As students preparing to enter this profession you are strongly encouraged to become a student member of the National Athletic Trainers Association, Inc. (NATA). Membership benefits include a subscription to the Journal of Athletic Training, reduced registration fees for national and district symposia, eligibility for scholarships, and other direct benefits. Membership applications and information are available from the Program Director or via the Internet at the NATA website (http://www.nata.org).
Overview
“Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian community of disciples and scholars who seek to advance the work of God in the world through academic excellence in liberal arts and professional programs of higher education that encourage students to develop a Christian perspective of truth and life.” (Statement of mission and purpose of Azusa Pacific University) The Athletic Training Education Program prepares students for careers in athletic training. Program requirements allow flexibility in planning and pursuing a student’s post-graduate career goals. On-campus experiential learning and on/off-campus internships provide the student with practical learning experiences designed to strengthen both professional preparation and career placement.
The Athletic Training Education Program provides preparation for a career at the high school, college/university, and professional sport levels, or clinical or industrial settings.
The Athletic Training Education Program prepares students to perform as entry-level athletic trainers and to successfully pursue certification by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Board of Certification.
1. To provide students with the required knowledge and skills to become competent entry-level athletic trainers.
2. To help students learn how to communicate and interact with others effectively.
3. To foster an understanding of multiple perspectives to facilitate learning, particularly within the clinical setting.
4. To impart the ability to make informed decisions regarding the prescribed standards of practice and ethics of the profession of athletic training.
5. To provide students with the ability to critically analyze evaluative, treatment, and rehabilitation protocols to ensure efficient and quality care for every athlete/patient/client.
6. To assist students in becoming true servants of God as they minister to injured persons.
The Azusa Pacific University Athletic Training Education Program is composed of two major sections: didactic (academic) and clinical. Both areas are vital to the successful completion of the program. The following sections outline requirements, policies, and procedures for these areas.
Major Acceptance is required for all students at Azusa Pacific University. Major Acceptance requirements for the Athletic Training Education Program include the following:
Students seeking acceptance in the Athletic Training Education Program must complete an application to the Department of Physical Education by February 1 of the sophomore year. In order to be consistent with guidelines suggested by the accrediting agency, the Athletic Training Program Director and the Chair of Physical Education will determine departmental staffing and specific number of places available each year. All application materials for this major (except the interview) must be submitted and verified at the time of the application. Acceptance into the major will be based on the following criteria:
1. Comply with procedural steps that include:
a. A completed application form.
b. Verification that completed medical records [health history, immunization records (including Hepatitis B vaccine), pre-entrance physical examination, and signed Bill of Rights and Consent to Treat Form] are on file in the Health Services Center.
c. A signed oath or affirmation of confidentiality regarding all medical information.
d. A minimum of two written college/university (faculty or advisor) recommendations. (These may not come from the Azusa Pacific University Certified Athletic Training Staff.)
2. Academic ability as demonstrated by the following:
a. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
b. Minimum 3.0 average in the following (no courses below a “C”): AT 101, AT 160, AT 220, AT 240
c. Minimum 2.0 average in the following: BIOL 101, BIOL 250
3. Commitment to the field of Athletic Training as demonstrated by:
a. Completing a minimum of 75 hours of observation in athletic training.
b. Completing 50 percent of Level I Athletic Training Proficiencies.
4. Written and verbal skills as well as knowledge and interest in the field of Athletic Training as demonstrated in the following:
a. A written essay (3-5 double spaced pages) that provides:
(1) A statement of why the student desires to become a certified athletic trainer.
(2) A description of the individual’s personal strengths.
(3) A description of the area(s) that present(s) the greatest challenge to the student.
(4) A description of the individual’s plan for completing the required clinical hours.
b. An interview conducted by the Certified Athletic Training Staff.
The Azusa Pacific University Certified Athletic Training staff will evaluate applicants and send their recommendations to the Physical Education Department for approval. Students will be notified of their status by March 5. If places are not available for every qualified student, each student who is not accepted will work with the department to develop an alternative plan which may include reapplication for the following year and/or other academic options.
The curriculum is structured in a progressive manner building on skill and knowledge acquisition. Students should meet with their advisor regularly to assess academic progress and determine the course of study.
Required
Courses for an Athletic Training Education Program
General
Studies Requirements
AT 101 Introduction to Athletic Training 1 Unit
AT 160 First Aid and CPR 2 Units
AT 220 Risk Management for the Physically 3 Units
Active
AT 240 Observation I in Athletic Training 1 Unit
AT 242 Observation II in Athletic Training 1 Unit
AT 270 Assessment and Evaluation in 4 Units
Athletic Training
AT 340 Practicum I in Athletic Training 1 Unit
AT 341 Practicum II in Athletic Training 1 Unit
AT 351 Therapeutic Modalities 3 Units
AT 352 Therapeutic Exercise 3 Units
AT 355 Medical Conditions and Disabilities 2 Units
AT 440 Practicum III in Athletic Training 1 Unit
AT 442 Practicum IV in Athletic Training 3-6 Units
AT 465 Pharmacology 1 Unit
AT 469 Health Care Administration 3 Units
AT 495 Research Methods 4 Units
BIOL 101 Fundamentals of Biology 4 Units
BIOL 250 Human Anatomy 4 Units
BIOL 251 Human Physiology 4 Units
NURS 260 Nutrition 2 Units
PE 240 Health Education 2 Units
PE 363 Physiology of Exercise 3 Units
PE 364 Kinesiology 3 Units
PSYC 110 General Psychology 3 Units
PSYC 385 Health Psychology 3 Units
Total units required for the Athletic Training Education Program: 56-59 Units.
Students must maintain a 3.0 average in all AT courses and an overall GPA of 2.5.
A
grade of “C” or better must be earned in all AT courses.
Course Sequencing
FALL SPRING
FROSH BIOL 101 4 AT 160 2
PE 240 and Fitness 3 AT 101 1
for Life PSYC 110 3
SOPH BIOL 250 4 BIOL 251 4
AT 220 3 AT 270 4
AT 240 1 AT 242 1
JUNIOR AT 351 3 AT 342 1
PE 364 3 AT 352 3
PE 363 3 AT 355 3
AT 340 1 UNRS 260 2
SENIOR AT 465 1 AT 469 3
AT 495 4
AT 440 1
AT 442 3-6
PSYC 385 3
Individual course descriptions are in the Azusa Pacific University Catalog. Course objectives and the process for evaluation are outlined in specific course syllabi.
Internships are field experiences designed to provide a learning experience under professional supervision. The goal of the internship experience is to allow students the opportunity to participate in programs relevant to their area of major and interest. All students in the Athletic Training Education Program must complete an internship experience.
Students have some flexibility in selecting internship sites depending on their goals. If student athletic trainers would like to use the internship experience to accrue hours toward graduation, the internship must be done at an affiliated site. The list of current affiliated sites and the site supervisors can be obtained from the Program Director. Students may do internships at other sites with the understanding that the clinical hours will not count toward the 800 hours required for graduation or certification. (1500 hours will still be needed for certification until the program becomes accredited.)
The procedures for selecting and setting up an internship are as follows:
1. Complete a site request form for the Program Director or director of the internship program.
2. Meet with the Program Director or director of the internship program to select a site based on the student’s goals and objectives and the sites available.
3. Interview with the on-site supervisor. The on-site supervisor has the final decision about accepting a student intern.
4. Once accepted at a site, complete the Internship Learning Contract. This form includes goals and objectives as well as student intern responsibilities and is signed by the student, the site supervisor, and the faculty sponsor (certified athletic trainer on campus). (Exhibit I)
Students are evaluated at the internship sites by the site supervisor(s) using tools designed by the certified athletic training staff at the university. In addition, students are asked to evaluate the internship site based on their experiences. The Program Director of Athletic Training uses those student evaluations and the information received from the students in their final reports to assess internship sites and clinical supervisors. (Exhibit I)
Student athletic trainers assigned to clinical rotations, team assignments, and/or internships must maintain the minimum overall grade point average of 2.5. The student athletic trainer will be placed on Athletic Training Clinical Probation and will not be allowed to work as a student athletic trainer or accumulate hours toward certification. Once removed from probation, the student athletic trainer will also be reinstated in Athletic Training Clinical Education and may begin to work and accumulate clinical hours.
In order to complete the Athletic Training Education Program requirements, students must complete all three levels of Athletic Training Competencies. All requirements must be met at the lower level in order to move to the higher level. The overall goal of the competencies is to prepare students for entry-level positions in athletic training. Objectives are identified for each Level. All students doing clinical work will be under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer. If a student finds himself/herself in a situation where direct supervision is not occurring, it should be reported to the Program Director as soon as possible.
Clinical Proficiencies
A complete listing of all required clinical proficiencies is in Exhibit VII. Students are required to complete all proficiencies in one level prior to moving to the next level. The certified athletic training staff posts hours for proficiency check-offs on a regular basis. There is also a posting identifying the certified athletic trainer(s) responsible for “checking-off” particular skills. These assignments assure consistency and proficiency in the evaluation of the skills. In order to complete a skill and get “checked-off”, students must sign-up for these times with the proper certified athletic trainer.
In order to accrue clinical hours toward graduation, students must comply with the following:
1. Maintain updated First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer certification.
2. Attend one session of OSHA training per year.
3. Attend monthly student athletic trainer meetings with the certified athletic training staff.
Students who do not maintain numbers 1 and 2 above will be on clinical probation and will not be allowed to accrue clinical hours until the deficiency has been met. The Program Director maintains the records for the above in the students’ files.
Students who choose to transfer to Azusa Pacific University after their first, second, or third semester at another institution will go through Major Acceptance during the spring of their sophomore year. Students who choose to transfer to Azusa Pacific University after this period must apply to the University and be accepted by January 15. They must notify the Athletic Training Program Director by February 1, prior to enrollment. All application materials for Major Acceptance into the Athletic Training Education Program must be submitted by February 15. Students will receive notification by March 15 regarding their application into this major.
Objectives:
1. To gain a clear understanding of the athletic training profession through clinical observations.
2. To learn the basic techniques of athletic injury taping, wrapping, and bracing.
3. To demonstrate an understanding of the policies and procedures of the daily operation of the Athletic Training Room.
4. To demonstrate proficiency in first aid and CPR skills.
5. To communicate effectively with the supervising certified athletic trainer(s).
6. To work cooperatively with student and staff athletic trainers.
7. To complete other objectives as outlined in specific course syllabi.
8. To complete other specific objectives as outlined with the supervising certified athletic trainer(s).
Course Work:
The following courses should be taken as prerequisites for Major Acceptance in Athletic Training.
BIOL 101 Fundamentals of Biology*
BIOL 250 Human Anatomy*
AT 101 Introduction to Athletic Training^
AT 160 First Aid and CPR^
AT 220 Risk Management^
AT
240 Observation I in Athletic
Training^
Students must maintain an overall GPA of 2.5.
*A minimum of 2.0 average must be obtained in these courses.
^A
minimum of 3.0 average must be obtained in these courses with no course having a
grade lower than a “C”.
The following courses should also be taken during Level I.
AT 242 Observation II in Athletic Training^
AT 270 Assessment and Evaluation in Athletic Training^
BIOL 251 Human Physiology
PE 240 Health Education
PSYC 110 Fundamentals of Psychology
^A
minimum of 3.0 average must be obtained in these courses with no course having a
grade lower than a “C”.
Clinical Assignments:
Students interested in the Athletic Training Major are required to do a minimum of 75 hours of observation prior to applying to the major. Students in Level I will be assigned to clinical rotation observations through AT 240 and AT 242. These observation rotations introduce the students to the roles of the certified athletic trainer while working with intercollegiate athletic teams and in the athletic training room. Students doing these observations will be under the direct supervision of Certified Athletic Trainers. The objectives of these rotations are outlined in the objectives for Level I. Each rotation lasts two to three weeks, and students continue these rotations throughout their sophomore year. We are currently examining the potential for some of the rotations to occur at affiliated sites to introduce the students to the variety of options in athletic training early in their careers. Student observers are not allowed to work directly with any student-athletes or others who may be getting treatment in the clinical setting. Level I student responsibilities are as follows.
Responsibilities:
1. Practicing taping, wrapping, and bracing techniques
2. Assisting in daily Athletic Training Room operations, including the following:
A. Basic record keeping, including learning the computer software program
3.
Assisting with the following:
A. Preparing whirlpools, slush, and contrast baths
B. Preparing hot packs
C. Preparing ice packs and ice
massage treatments
4. Assisting visiting athletic trainer(s) with materials needed and resources available
5. Keeping supervising certified athletic trainers informed as to any problems that may arise
6. Memorizing the emergency procedures, and appropriate telephone numbers
8. Maintaining daily log sheets of clinical rotation hours. Hours documented prior to Major
Acceptance are not included in the 800 hours required for graduation
9. Begin series of Hepatitis B Vaccine shots through the Health Center or other health facility of the student’s choosing
Student
Evaluation:
Level I students are evaluated in three ways. The first is through the regular evaluations of their academic work in courses. Second is the Major Acceptance process that is outlined above. The third evaluation is a clinical evaluation that occurs after Major Acceptance and before the student progresses to Level II. Normally this would occur at the end of the sophomore year. For this evaluation, students are evaluated based on how well they meet the clinical objectives of Level I. The evaluation tools are in Exhibit II.
General Description:
Objectives:
1. To provide proper and timely first aid to injured athletes
2. To communicate effectively with other student athletic trainers, athletes, and staff
3. To evaluate athletic injuries accurately and with confidence
4. To maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records and coaches’ reports
5. To use medical terminology correctly
6. To maintain the proper condition of the athletic training room
7. To work cooperatively with other student athletic trainers
8. To accurately and effectively present an injured athlete case to the team physician
9. To demonstrate the use of prevention strategies such as assisting during stretching and
hydration
^A
minimum of 3.0 average must be obtained in these courses with no course having a
grade lower than a “C”.
All of Level I responsibilities plus:
2. Assisting the certified athletic trainers in providing healthcare for student athletes
3. Assisting the certified athletic trainers in covering practices, contests, and special events associated with athletics
4 Assisting the certified athletic training staff with pre-participation physical examinations of student-athletes
5. Assisting the certified athletic trainers in treating injuries incurred by student-athletes
6. Evaluating and initially managing athletic injuries under the direct supervision of a certified athletic trainer
7. Setting up treatment programs prescribed by supervising certified athletic trainers
8. Maintaining current certification in First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer
9. Maintaining log sheets of clinical experience hours. [These forms must be signed by the supervising certified athletic trainer (clinical instructor) and submitted every two weeks to the Program Director.]
Other Responsibilities if assigned to the athletic training room:
1. Maintaining the athletic training room in proper order and cleanliness.
2. Assisting students assigned to teams with pre-practice/events preparation.
3. Assisting students assigned to teams with post-practice/event treatments.
4. Assisting in scheduling rehabilitation appointments for student-athletes.
5. Assisting in the rehabilitation of student-athletes.
Objectives:
2. To display initiative in performing athletic training duties and skills
5. To use proper medical terminology both in writing and verbally
6. To evaluate athletic injuries accurately and with confidence
9. To display confidence in performing athletic training duties and skills
10. To work cooperatively with other student athletic trainers, coaches, and supervising certified
athletic trainer(s)
11. To display empathy toward injured athletes and be willing to listen
12. To accurately and effectively present an injured athlete case to the team physician
13. To complete other objectives as outlined in specific course syllabi
14. Other specific objectives as outlined with the supervising certified athletic trainer
Course Work:
AT 440 Practicum III in Athletic Training^
AT 442 Practicum IV in Athletic Training^
AT 465 Pharmacology^
AT 469 Health Care Administration^
AT 495 Research Methods^
^A
minimum of 3.0 average must be obtained in these courses with no course having a
grade lower than a “C”.
Clinical Assignments:
All of LEVEL I and LEVEL II responsibilities plus:
1. Assisting the certified athletic trainers in the treatment and rehabilitation of injuries incurred by student-athletes
2. Helping to develop appropriate preventive, conditioning, and rehabilitative programs for student-athletes
3. Selecting and determining the proper parameters for modalities used in the care of athletic injuries in cooperation with the certified athletic trainers
4. Communicating daily with the supervising certified athletic trainer and the coach concerning the health and participation status of student-athletes
5. Providing leadership to Level I and II students
6. Participating in the educational process of other underclass student athletic trainers
7. Recognizing environmental stress conditions and making appropriate recommendations
8. Maintaining current certification in First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer
9. Completing the N.A.T.A Board of Certification Verification of Supervision form
In order to graduate with an Athletic Training Education Program, the following must be met:
1. Students will be required maintain a 3.0 average in all athletic training required courses (AT prefix). If a student received a grade below a “C” in any AT course, the course must be retaken. These requirements help to insure that the student has best possible opportunity to become successful athletic trainers and to pass the national certification examination in athletic training.
2. Students will be required to maintain an overall GPA of 2.5.
3. Students must complete a minimum of 800 hours of clinical instruction under the direct supervision of an approved clinical instructor. This number of hours is required for students graduating from accredited programs to be eligible to sit for the national certification examination.
4. Students must complete Levels I, II, and III of Clinical Proficiencies for Student Athletic Trainers. Completion of these competencies demonstrates proficiency in clinical skills, prepares the student for entry-level work as an athletic trainer, and prepares the student for the national certification examination.
5. Students must complete all other University requirements for graduation.
The following are ways in which the Athletic Training Education Program is evaluated:
1.
A Comprehensive Program Review of the Physical Education Department
occurs regularly.
2. The certified athletic training staff meets weekly to discuss issues related to the athletic training program and athletics. These discussions include clinical instruction and supervision of student athletic trainers, consistency of proficiency check-offs and other issues that may arise. Since these meetings occur weekly, issues and concerns are handled in a timely manner. Any concerns or ideas for changes can be voiced and discussed at these meetings and then taken to the Physical Education Department.
3. The Physical Education Department has regular meetings to address issues related to the department policies, procedures, curriculum, etc. Concerns and ideas for change can be brought to the department for discussion and decisions.
4. Student athletic trainers evaluate the athletic training program in the following ways:
A. Student athletic trainers complete the Athletic Training Program Evaluation form yearly. This instrument includes the evaluation of individual clinical supervisors, the identification of strengths and weaknesses of all aspects of the program, and a request for information on how the weaknesses may be addressed. General comments are also solicited (Appendix XIII).
B. Students are given the opportunity to evaluate academic courses. The campus-wide evaluation tool is the CAFÉ form. Individual instructors may also use their own forms.
C. Senior students are requested to complete a department evaluation form in the spring of their senior year. These evaluations include assessments of all aspects of the major.
5. Clinical supervisors at affiliated sites are encouraged to discuss their perceptions of the strengths and weaknesses of the Athletic Training Education Program. These occur in two forums:
A. Informally when the Azusa Pacific certified athletic trainers speak with the site supervisors concerning student interns.
B. Formally during the annual clinical supervisor meeting held in the spring.
6. Alumni surveys are sent six months after graduation. These surveys ask graduated of the department to assess their undergraduate experience. The Director of Athletic Training reviews these and brings concerns to the department as needed.
It is presumed that individuals involved in the athletic training program at Azusa Pacific University possess a sincere desire to promote a program of Christ-centered excellence with a spirit of service. This spirit should challenge the student athletic trainers to live these principles throughout the academic year, and allow them to be a motivating force in their lives.
The Role of the Student Athletic Trainer:
· Demonstrate a willingness to follow the leadership of the certified athletic trainers and the more experienced student athletic trainers. In addition, recognize your own potential to provide leadership among those with whom you come into contact, through actions, words, and deeds. This leadership includes sharing concerns and suggestions with the certified athletic training staff, whether they are personal or program concerns.
· Strive to become more knowledgeable in all areas of life, by regular class and chapel attendance. Meet, or exceed, the prescribed course expectations, develop an organized study program, and give proper attention to instruction in the athletic training room as well as in the classroom.
· Present yourself in a professional manner in conduct, speech, and appearance. This brings credit to yourself, Azusa Pacific University, and all those with whom you are associated.
· Agree that the use of alcohol, tobacco, and controlled substances (such as cocaine, marijuana, and steroids) will not be tolerated.
· Set realistic, yet high, individual standards of excellence academically, socially, and spiritually.
· Demonstrate loyalty to your fellow student athletic trainers, the certified athletic training staff, the coaches, and the athletic program at Azusa Pacific University by being dependable, prompt, responsible, and cooperative.
· Show proper respect for all persons associated with the athletic training program including athletes, coaches, other athletic trainers, and other health care workers. In addition, show respect for the facilities and equipment available for your use.
· Present yourself as a servant to others, following the example of Christ.
· Support the Azusa Pacific University athletic mission statement which reads:
Azusa Pacific’s intercollegiate athletic program focuses on the total
development of the student-athlete. Through
modeling Biblical principles, the athletic program seeks to maximize each
individual athlete’s God-given talents, thus bringing glory and honor to Jesus
Christ through performance and ministry