Doctor of Physical Therapy Student Handbook

Doctor of Physical Therapy

STUDENT

HANDBOOK

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 2

Welcome to the

DPT PROGRAM

Dear Student,

This handbook has been compiled to provide insight into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University

of Cincinnati. Hence, the handbook is designed to inform you about the various program policies as well as the

program procedures that will be important to you. All are advised to read the information carefully and to ask questions

about coursework, clinical requirements, academic standards, the College of Allied Health Sciences and the Physical

Therapy program. Although this handbook is specific to the PT program, the Graduate Handbook details policies not

outlined in this handbook that are important to you as a graduate student in this University. Therefore, students are

advised to access the Graduate Handbook at: http://www.grad.uc.edu (click on “Current Students” and then “Student

Handbook”) and are also directed toward additional information that can be provided by the Graduate School, the

Academic Advisors and the Director of Clinical Education. Students are further advised that they must abide by the

University of Cincinnati’s Student Code of Conduct (SCOC).

I hope that you will find this handbook useful as you embark on your graduate education in physical therapy.

Sincerely,

Chalee Engelhard, PT, EdD, MBA

DPT Program Director

Updated April 2023

  University of Cincinnati                                                                                                                                  DPT Student Handbook 3 
 
 
Table of Contents 
Welcome  ........................................................................... 2 
College of Allied Health Sciences ..................................... 4 
Mission ................................................................................ 4 
Vision ................................................................................... 4 
DPT Program Overview ..................................................... 5 
Vision ................................................................................... 5 
Mission ................................................................................ 5 
Philosophy .......................................................................... 5 
Program Goals ................................................................... 6 
Students Goals ................................................................... 6 
Graduate Goals .................................................................. 7 
Program Policies ............................................................... 8 
Accreditation ...................................................................... 8 
Recruitment ........................................................................ 8 
Admissions .......................................................................... 8 
Academic Requirements ................................................... 9 
Progression through the Program ................................. 10 
Dismissal from the Program ........................................... 10 
Leave of Absence .............................................................. 11 
Completion/Retention of the Program .......................... 12 
Physical Therapy Program Advising ............................... 12 
Classroom Attendance .................................................... 13 
Tardiness ........................................................................... 13 
Class Cancellation ............................................................ 13 
Physical Therapy Practicals ............................................. 14 
Classwork Re-Takes .......................................................... 14 
Classwork Make-Up ......................................................... 14 
Grading Scale .................................................................... 15 
Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct ................... 15 
Assignment of an “Incomplete” ...................................... 17 
Professional Behaviors .................................................... 18 
Borrowing Equipment ..................................................... 20 
Student Use of PT Labs ................................................... 21 
Laboratory Rules .............................................................. 21 
Dress Code ........................................................................ 23 
Use of Electronic Devices ................................................ 24 
Hazardous Materials and Potential Health Risks ........ 24 
Student Expenses ............................................................ 25 
Communication with Students ....................................... 26 
Disability Accommodations ............................................ 26 
Subject Participation in Lab:  Activities &Clinicals........ 27 
Community Requests ...................................................... 27 
Additional Requirements ................................................ 28 
Appeal & Complaints Process ......................................... 28 
Policy on Harassment/Abuse .......................................... 30 
Resource Websites ........................................................... 32 
Clinical Education Overview ........................................... 33 
Defining Inpatient (IP) & Outpatient (OP) ...................... 33 
Assignment to Clinical Rotations .................................... 34 
Physical Therapy Practice I .............................................. 34 
Physical Therapy Practice II – IV ..................................... 34 
Additional Information on Clinical Rotations ................ 35 
Expectations for Students ............................................... 37 
Clinical Education Seminar: C/O of 2024 & Spring 25 .. 37 
Attendance for Clinical Education Experience.............. 37 
General Student Policies................................................. 37 
Absence, Tardiness, or Early Departure Policy ............. 38 
Planned Absences ............................................................ 38 
Unexpected Absences ..................................................... 39 
Grading .............................................................................. 39 
Written Authorization ...................................................... 39 
Clinical Experience Dress Code ....................................... 39 
Additional Information .................................................... 40 
Student-Needlestick or Body Fluid Exposure ............... 41 
Required Documentation for Clinical Assignments ..... 42 
Guidelines for Selection of Clinical Instructors ............ 42 
Role of the Site Coordinator of Clinical Education  ...... 43 
Additional Requirements ................................................ 44 
Appendix A ........................................................................ 45 
Essential Program-Related Functions ............................ 45 
Appendix B ........................................................................ 47 
Essential Function Program Release Form .................... 47 
Appendix C ........................................................................ 48 
Consent Form ................................................................... 48 
Appendix D ........................................................................ 49 
Acknowledgement of Clin Ed  & Vaccine Form ............. 49 
Appendix E ........................................................................ 51 
Vaccination Exemption Form .......................................... 51 
Appendix F ......................................................................... 52 
Incomplete Grade Form .................................................. 52 
Appendix G ........................................................................ 54 
Student Incident Report .................................................. 54 
Appendix H ........................................................................ 55 
Absence Appeal Form ...................................................... 55 
Appendix I ......................................................................... 56 
Student Professional Behavior Assessment ................. 56 
Appendix J.......................................................................... 57 
COVID-19 and Clinical Education .................................... 57 
 
 

DPT Program Overview

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 4

College of Allied Health Sciences

Mission

The College of Allied Health Sciences educates and

prepares future allied health and other health science

professionals to provide high quality service in their

respective fields. In conjunction with community-

based partners, students achieve clinical skills and learn

the values of critical thinking, good communication,

teamwork, cultural competence and service learning.

The college’s faculty is committed to excellence in

teaching, research, service and leadership.

Vision

It is the belief of the faculty that the vision and mission

of the college will be served best by encouraging our

students at all levels, by explanation and by example to:

•

Strive for excellence in the scientific, professional

and humanistic aspects of their chosen discipline.

•

Be aware of the changing needs and demands in

health professions which may lead to changes in

practice and/or education patterns.

•

Participate in activities which enhance the role

played by all allied health professions.

•

Practice in a manner current and consistent with

well-established methods, and use treatments which

have been fully explained to, and accepted by, the

patient or client.

•

Provide an environment conducive to gaining an

awareness of the importance of lifelong learning.

•

Foster an open and collaborative relationship with

other disciplines.

DPT Program Overview

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 5

DPT Program Overview

Vision

Transforming our profession and community through

education, research, service, and leadership.

Mission

It is the mission of the University of Cincinnati’s

physical therapy program to:

•

Utilize evidence, reflection and contemporary

practice in student education.

•

Support the professional development of students

and faculty.

•

Promote scholarly activity which drives the field of

physical therapy.

•

Serve the local, regional and global communities.

•

Exemplify professional, interprofessional and

academic leadership.

•

Philosophy

The physical therapy program fosters mastery of

foundational and applied sciences in conjunction

with the development of professional behaviors as

the cornerstones of physical therapy practice. The

program values the uniqueness of each student and

faculty member as it strives for excellence in the

classroom and clinic. We are committed to

education, research, service and leadership that will

transform our profession and community.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 6

Program Goals

Goal 1

: The DPT Program will promote excellence in the

classroom and clinic by: 

•

Weaving the most current evidence,

reflection and contemporary practice into

DPT student education.

•

Encouraging excellence in student

performance with e-portfolios, professional

behavior assessments, clinical education

performance and pass rates.

•

Providing a culture of excellence in clinical

decision-making, interprofessional

education, and demonstration of the APTA

Core Values.

•

Providing learning experiences that value

each individual’s contributions to promote

greater understanding of cultural

competency and varying viewpoints.

Outcome – Students will achieve entry level

performance as evidenced by NPTE pass rates

(100% ultimate pass rate), Professional Behavior

documents, and Clinical Performance Instrument.

Goal 2:

The DPT Program will support excellence in

professional, lifelong learning.

Outcome – Students will attend at least one

conference during their DPT Program experience as

evidenced by the participation of students and

faculty at local, state, regional and national

conferences/events.

Goal 3:

The DPT Program will promote scholarly activity

and/or clinical excellence with our students and

faculty to drive the field of physical therapy forward. 

Outcome – Students will participate in at least one

faculty led scholarly or clinical excellence activity

during their DPT Program experience as evidenced

by publications, presentations, grant funding,

awards, advanced certification, advanced technique

development, or other scholarly products.

Goal 4

: The DPT Program will encourage excellence in social

responsibility as students and faculty will serve the local,

regional, and global communities.

Outcome – Students will serve in at least two

volunteer, faculty-involved experiences during their

time in the DPT program by participating in

experiences such as volunteering at a pro bono clinic,

international experience or collaborating with

professional organizations.

Goal 5

: The DPT program’s students and faculty will

exemplify excellence in professional, interprofessional and

academic leadership.  

Outcome – Students and faculty will have 100%

APTA membership; faculty and students will hold

local, state, regional or national positions;

and demonstrate active engagement in UC

interprofessional experiences. 

Students Goals

Students of the UC DPT program enter the

profession as autonomous, reflective healthcare

practitioners who:

Goal 1

: Are competent, safe, and independent in physical

therapy practice across the lifespan and in the numerous settings

of physical therapy practice.

Outcome: Students will achieve entry-level by the last

clinical rotation on a clinical performance instrument.

Goal 2

: Students will utilize evidence-based practices to direct

their clinical decision making.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate evidence-based

practices as demonstrated by a clinical performance

instrument, completing clinical projects such as

Critically Appraised Articles, in-service, administrative

project, active engagement in clinical site evidence-

based practice meeting or grand rounds-UC GNI.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 7

Goal 3:

Demonstrate the APTA Core Values:

accountability, altruism, collaboration, compassion and

caring, duty, excellence, integrity, and social responsibility

Outcome: Students will demonstrate reflection and

growth through the Professional Behaviors

Assessment and ultimately reach entry-level prior to

graduation.

Goal 4:

Exhibit professional and effective verbal, non-

verbal, and written communication skills

Outcome: Students will meet entry-level by the last

clinical rotation on a clinical performance

instrument

Goal 5:

Participate in activities that advance the profession

of physical therapy and that benefit the local, regional,

national, and/or global community.

Outcome: Students will participate in at least one

professional development event prior to graduation.

Goal 6:

Are motivated, engaged, agile, and adaptive learners

who demonstrate life-long learning.

Outcome: Students will demonstrate reflection and

growth through the Professional Behaviors

Assessment and ultimately achieve entry-level prior

to graduation.

Goal 7:

Engage in interprofessional education and

collaborative practice and understand their influence on

patient outcomes

Outcome: Students will participate in at least two

College-sponsored interprofessional activities prior

to graduation and will experience at least one

interprofessional education touchpoint during a

clinical rotation.

Graduate Goals

Graduates of the UC DPT program are autonomous,

reflective healthcare practitioners who in practice will:

Goal 1:

Adhere to legal practice standards, including all

federal, state and institutional regulations related to

patient/client care and to fiscal management.

Goal 2

: Exhibit caring, compassion and empathy in providing

services to patients/clients.

Goal 3:

Demonstrate excellence in professional behavior in

interactions with patients/clients, family members, caregivers,

other health providers, students, other consumers, and payers.

Goal 4:

Actively participate or support clinical education of

students.

Goal 5

: Interact and practice in collaboration with a variety of

professionals.

Goal 6:

Expressively and receptively communicate in a

culturally competent manner with patients/clients, family

members, caregivers, practitioners, interdisciplinary team

members, consumers, payers, and policy makers.

Goal 7:

Consistently apply current knowledge, theory and

professional judgment while considering the patient/client

perspective in patient/client management.

Goal 8:

Consistently and critically evaluate sources of

information related to physical therapist practice, research and

education and apply knowledge from these sources in a scientific

manner and to appropriate populations.

Outcome: Graduates will exhibit each of the above

professional characteristics as indicated by the 12

month and/or 3-year graduate survey.

Outcome: Graduates will exhibit each of the above

professional characteristics as indicated by the

employer survey.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 8

Program Policies

Accreditation

Policy 1

It is important to understand that while the

University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses

are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission,

the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at

University of Cincinnati is accredited by the

Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy

Education (CAPTE). As a part of being an

accredited program, which is necessary in order to

receive licensure, faculty and students have roles

and responsibilities to ensure compliance with

CAPTE policies and procedures and to align our

learning experiences with the program’s mission

and vision.

Recruitment

Policy 2

Recruitment occurs in three phases throughout the

year. The initial phase of recruitment occurs in the

spring semester (12 months prior to admission). The

first phase has two primary foci. The first being the

Junior Early Assurance Pathway (JEAP) which targets

potential applicants who have been enrolled at UC since

their freshman year, are currently enrolled in the Health

Sciences Program. The second focus includes the High

School Early Assurance Pathway (HEAP) which occurs

in coordination with the college’s admission team as

this pathway focuses on the recruitment of high school

seniors. The second phase begins when the Physical

Therapy Centralized Application System (PTCAS)

application is available and continues through the

application due date. During this phase the program

offers numerous in-person and virtual (on-line)

information sessions to provide potential applicants

data about the program and to provide an opportunity

to interact with current students and faculty. The final

phase of the recruitment process is focused on yielding

the applicants who receive offers of admission.

Admissions

Policy 3

Each year the program takes intentional steps to ensure

that the incoming cohort has the capacity to meet the

rigor, goals, mission and vision of our program while

maintaining the CAPTE-set planned cohort size. This is

accomplished through careful consideration of each

applicant. Each applicant completes a standardized

application through PTCAS. The program currently

considers GPA, Kira Talent Assessment, observation

hours and holistic measures for acceptance into the

program. Application review includes multiple phases

with the applicants being scored on the data listed above

including determining how well the applicant may align

(“fit”) with the mission and goals of the program. After

each admissions cycle is complete, the admissions

process is examined to identify any potential sources of

bias and outlying trends, which are addressed prior to the

next review cycle.

With respect to planned class size, the Admissions Chair

and Committee follow a set procedure to ensure class

size does not lead to over-enrollment. Admission offers

begin prior to the Winter Season break and are sent out

in carefully planned waves. As acceptances are received,

the Admission’s Chair and Program Coordinator meet to

determine the number of applicants who will be in the

next wave. The cycle becomes iterative until the class size

parameters are met.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 9

Academic Requirements

Policy 4

Students admitted to the Physical Therapy program are

required to carry the full semester load and to meet the

criteria of the College and the program as follows:

•

Enrollment in all required courses each semester as

outlined in the program curriculum.

•

Earn a minimum GPA of 3.0 each semester.

•

Earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

•

Earn a grade of B or better in all courses graded A

through F.

•

Earn a grade of P in all courses graded P (pass) or F

(fail).

•

Complete all courses in an academic semester with

a grade of B or better or with a grade of P before

advancing to the next semester’s classes.

If, during one semester, a grade of “C” is received in

any one or any two courses that are required in the PT

program, the course(s) must be repeated. In such cases,

the student will be placed on academic probation

within the program and will be restricted from enrolling

in any succeeding physical therapy courses until the

course(s) has/have been repeated at the next offering

and a grade of “B” or better has been attained in each

course. Physical therapy courses are offered one

semester per year; therefore, in the event of the need to

repeat a course, the completion of the curriculum will

be delayed one year. In this case the student must

submit to the Program Director a written request for a

program leave of absence, and is subject to the

conditions of the Leave of Absence policy.

If the student does not attain a grade of “B” or better

after taking a course a second time, the student will be

dismissed from the physical therapy program. If a

student, during another semester, again, receives a grade

of “C,” or “F,” the student will be dismissed from the

physical therapy program. A student is not eligible for

academic probation or a leave if the student, in any one

semester, receives a grade below a B in three or more

courses or receives an “F” in any course.

Clinical Education Requirements

Clinical education is an important part of the Physical

Therapy curriculum. Students must successfully

complete all Physical Therapy Practice courses (clinical

rotations) receiving a grade of “P” prior to progressing

in the curriculum.

Program Activities

The Program works diligently to provide each student

with opportunities to learn inside and outside of the

classroom in order to become graduates who are highly

successful, well-rounded, entry level clinicians. With this

in mind, all students are required to participate in a

minimum of three interprofessional education (IPE)

activities, one diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI)

activity, and one telehealth activity while in our PT

Program. Additionally, students will participate, alongside

faculty, in the Gait Way Experiences. Students and

faculty desire to discuss important physical therapy topics

outside the classroom. The Gait-Way Experience

provides time and a format to discuss these concepts.

These topics may span courses or not fit into any one

course. This makes it challenging to have these

discussions within the classroom. The format for the

experience will vary based on the topic but may include

brief presentations and discussions led by students,

faculty, alumni, or clinical partners. We expect all on-

campus students and faculty to attend the experience.

Professional Behavior Requirements

All students must demonstrate appropriate professional

behavior as defined in the Professional Behaviors policy.

Satisfactory progress is demonstrated by exhibiting

consistent growth from the Beginning Level Criteria to

Intermediate Level and eventually to Entry Level by the

end of all clinical education experiences. The

Professional Behaviors has an additional category, Post

Entry Level, where the student’s behavior would be

consistent with an autonomous practitioner. This level

is not required for the student to achieve; however, it

facilitates the student to become a life-long learner as

they embark on their professional careers.

Included in the competencies for each course are

not only knowledge, skills and attitudes, but also

safety, ethics, judgment, appropriate behavior (see

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 10

Professional Behaviors Policy

), communication,

documentation, etc. To be awarded a grade of

“B” or better, a student must demonstrate a

satisfactory level of performance in these areas as

determined by the faculty.

Program responsibilities such as weekly cleaning of

the labs and completion of course evaluations are

considered professional behavior requirements. At

the end of each term, students are required to

complete course evaluations for each course in

which they are registered. Feedback on courses is

required to meet accreditation guidelines and to

provide the faculty with information needed to

make changes and improvements to their courses.

Students who do not fulfill program

responsibilities may be placed on a professional

behavior plan.

All Students must submit, within the specified time

frames, required documentation of physicals, all needed

immunizations, CPR certification and all other required

program documentation. Failure to do so will result in

suspension from all program activities, including classes

and clinical rotations and may result in dismissal from

the program. Please refer to Additional Requirements

for further information.

Progression through the Program

Policy 5

All students will be reviewed by the faculty following

each academic semester. The progress of each student

is monitored by reviewing grade reports, professional

behaviors, ability to meet the essential program

functions and clinical performance. In the event that

academic problems are identified, the faculty discusses

possible ways to assist the student that may include

review sessions with the lab instructor, meeting with

faculty during office hours, etc.

The student’s faculty advisor is responsible for meeting

with the student to discuss these suggestions. If non-

academic requirements are not being met, a meeting is

scheduled between the student and the program

director, faculty advisor, department head or program

faculty. The purpose of the meeting is to address the

concern and problem-solve a potential solution. Written

documentation from this meeting is developed and will

include each problem discussed along with an action

plan. The student can provide input to this

documentation, will receive a finalized copy and another

copy is placed in the students’ file. The student must

respond to the faculty in written form and confirm the

plan to remediate the problem. This documentation

must include reasonable consequences if the plan is not

carried out successfully. Subsequent meetings are also

documented. If the problem is not resolved after

presenting the problem to the student and allowing for

remediation, dismissal from the program may be

considered.

The decision for dismissal is made by a majority vote of

the full-time physical therapy faculty. The Program

Director has a final meeting with the student to inform

the student of the decision. A student will only be

assigned to a clinical rotation if the student has met all

necessary program requirements.

Dismissal from the Program

Policy 6

Reasons for dismissal from the program include, but are

not limited to, the following:

•

A student who takes a course and receives a grade

of “C” and upon taking the same course a second

time, receives a grade lower than a “B”.

•

A student who, after receiving a grade of “C” in

any course, fails to take the course the next time the

course is offered.

•

A student who, after withdrawing from classes,

fails to return to the program by the term stated in

the Leave of Absence letter.

•

A student who, after remediating a grade of “C” in

one semester by successfully retaking the course

the next time it is offered, receives a grade lower

than a “B” in another course or withdraws from

classes.

•

A student who receives, in any one semester, a

grade that is lower than a “B” in three or more

required courses in the PT program or receives an

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 11

“F” in any required course will be immediately

dismissed from the physical therapy program

regardless of semester or cumulative GPA.

•

A student who has withdrawn, with an

approved leave of absence, returns and then

withdraws a second time, or receives a grade

of “C” in any subsequent course.

•

A student who has failed to maintain a cumulative

GPA above 3.0 during any three semesters in the

program.

•

A student who withdraws from a course and fails

to take the course the next time it is offered.

•

A student who achieves acceptable academic

standing but, in the professional opinion of the

faculty, demonstrates unacceptable professional

behavior may not be recommended for a clinical

experience or may be dismissed from the

program. A decision to not place a student in a

clinical

experience or to dismiss a student from

the program will occur only after a student has

been notified of the faculty’s concerns and has

been given the opportunity to correct the

deficiencies (See Progression in the Physical

Therapy Program and

Professional Behaviors).

•

A student who is unable to meet the essential

program functions.

•

A student who fails to submit required

documentation within program timelines is also,

upon a majority vote by the faculty, subject to

dismissal.

•

Violation of the University of Cincinnati Student

Code of Conduct.

A student has the right to appeal a dismissal decision.

See Appeal Procedure.

Anyone dismissed from the Physical Therapy program

may re-apply for admission after two academic years.

Re-admission will be determined by the Admissions

Committee utilizing all admissions criteria and is a

competitive process. The Committee will also take into

consideration the reason for the dismissal. Faculty must

also approve, by a majority vote, readmission.

Leave of Absence

Policy 7

On occasion, a student may experience academic

difficulty, illness or personal issues which prevent the

student from completing the requirements of a specific

course and necessitates a withdrawal from classes. A

request for leave of absence must be submitted to the

program director in writing, within one week of the

withdrawal and cannot exceed one calendar year.

Program faculty will review the request and have the

discretion, but are not required, to grant such leaves. In

addition, the faculty may recommend that the student

complete specified activities while on leave that will allow

the student to be better prepared to resume full time

studies upon their return. This may include, but is not

limited to, additional coursework, tutoring, meeting with

faculty, etc. Prior to their return, the student’s academic

record will be reviewed and, if courses which have

already been completed are considered out of date, or if

new requirements, courses, or competencies have been

added to such curriculum, the faculty may stipulate that

certain courses be taken or retaken to meet requirements.

A student may only be granted one leave of leave of

absence.

If a student withdraws, they must withdraw from all

courses in which they are enrolled. Students are not

permitted to withdraw from a specific course and remain

enrolled in other courses. Students must withdraw by the

stated University deadline for withdrawal from classes.

Withdrawal after the stated University deadline is not

permitted. Any student who withdraws from courses and

is granted a leave of absence must repeat the courses the

next time they are offered. Please note that PT courses

are only offered once per year. Students must

successfully complete the courses with a grade of B or

better in each course.

If a student who has withdrawn, with an approved

leave of absence, returns and then withdraws a second

time, or receives a grade of “C” in any subsequent

course, they will be dismissed from the program. A

student who is in good academic standing and requests

a leave of absence can be reinstated at the same course

level if the leave is approved by the faculty and the

student is

reinstated within one year.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 12

Students who request a leave of absence because they

are academically ineligible to continue in the program

due to a grade of “C” in one or two courses in a

semester, will be required to repeat the course(s) the

next time the course is offered.

Before returning to the program, the student must

complete all additional requirements (as outlined in

Additional Requirements). Proof of compliance

with these additional requirements must be

submitted prior to resuming courses. The student

must notify the PT Program Director in writing of

his/her continued intention to return to the

program by the date stated in the letter informing

the student that the request for a leave of absence

has been granted. In addition, the student is

required to pay all fees required of incoming

students by the stated deadline. A student who

withdraws from any required physical therapy course

without requesting and/or receiving a leave of

absence from the program will be dismissed from

the program.

Note: Students must register for at least one graduate course

(minimum of 1 credit hour) during an academic year in order

to maintain graduate student status within the University. If

a student is unable to register for at least one graduate credit

hour, then the student must request a leave of absence from

the

Graduate School. This request must be made on a

Request for Leave of Absence form, obtained from the

graduate school website

(www.grad.uc.edu) and submitted to

the program director.

The program director will forward the application to the

department head and college dean for approval. Upon approval of

the dean, the dean will forward the application to the Associate

Dean of the

Graduate School. The Associate Dean will notify

the student in writing of the approval or denial of

the request.

Please note that the Graduate School

will only approve a leave of

absence under very specific circumstances. Please refer to the

Graduate School handbook for further details.

A program leave of absence as outlined in the

Leave of Absence

Policy does not typically require

that the student request a leave of

absence from the Graduate School. A request for a leave from the

Graduate School is only required if

the student will not be

registered for at least 1

graduate credit hour during an academic

year.

Students with financial aid or student loans should confer

with the Student Financial Aid @ (513) 556-1000 or

Financial Aid prior to requesting a leave of absence to

ascertain the consequences of such action on their

loan

status.

Completion/Retention of the Program

Policy 8

To complete the PT program, students must satisfactorily

complete all program courses and requirements,

including all clinical assignments and meet all University

of Cincinnati obligations, including all financial

responsibilities. In order to be certified for graduation,

the Graduate School requires that a student have a

cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and have no grades of

I, F, or NG on their transcript.

Physical Therapy Program Advising

Policy 9

Each student will be assigned a faculty advisor. Students

are required to contact and arrange a meeting with their

advisor during the fall semester of each year and as

needed or requested in subsequent semesters. Academic

progress and professional development are to be

discussed and documented. If, during the student review

by the faculty which takes place at the end of each

PT Program 25

Anniversary Celebration!

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 13

semester (see Progression in Physical Therapy

program), or at any other time, it is determined that a

formal professional behavior plan is needed for a

student, the appropriate faculty member which may be

their faculty advisor, instructor, and/or Director of

Clinical Education (DCE) will meet with the student.

The faculty member will be responsible for overseeing

the writing, initiation, and completion of the

professional behavior plan with support as needed

from the Program Director. See Professional

Behaviors.

It is also recommended that a student discuss any

extenuating circumstances that might affect the

student’s attendance or performance in class with their

faculty advisor during their annual meetings.

The goals of Physical Therapy program advising are as

follows:

•

To help students understand the day-to-day life as a

PT.

•

To help students evaluate personal strengths,

weaknesses and areas of concern that might affect

successful completion of the PT program.

•

To facilitate, if needed, the development of a

professional behaviors plan.

•

To assist the students with specific areas of

academic concern.

•

To assist those students who choose to leave the PT

program through available information and referrals.

•

To serve as a conduit to University student services

as needed by the student.

•

To confirm the student is on track with program

requirements such as Interprofessional Education

(IPE) and Diversity touchpoints.

Note: The PT advisor does not replace the need for students to

contact the college academic advisors, as needed.

Classroom Attendance

Policy 10

The PT program strongly recommends that students

attend all classroom and laboratory meetings. If a

student is absent from any course meeting, for any

reason, the student is responsible for all information,

assignments, homework, handouts, discussions and any

necessary additional assignments as determined by the

instructor. In addition, if a student is absent, for any

reason, the student is advised that missing classroom

discussion, lab questions, assignments, check-offs,

quizzes, practicals, exams and/or any other activities

and/or missing the date the above occur or are due, may

have significant effects on the student’s grade and ability

to pass the course. A student who misses more than two

consecutive days of classes, must have a written note

from their physician.

Students are responsible for their own attendance and,

thus, take responsibility for consequences of non-

attendance.

Note: Exceptions may be made to the policy above in individual

courses as noted on the course syllabus.

Tardiness

Policy 11

Students are expected to be in the classroom or lab

at the start of class and stay until all activities are

completed. On all occasions, the student will be

responsible for all activities missed and must recognize

the consequences of an absence.

Note: Exceptions may be made to the policy above in individual

courses as noted on the course syllabus.

Class Cancellation

Policy 12

In the event of an unscheduled University closure

or cancellation of program classes, students may be

required to make up the missed class time. The

decision to make up the class time is at the sole

discretion of the course instructor.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 14

Physical Therapy Practicals

Policy 13

Practical examinations are given to students to assess

competency in a given patient evaluation, treatment

and/or assessment skill. In addition to assessment

concerning the actual performance of the skill, all

practicals will include assessment of communication

skills, any required adaptations, appropriate professional

behavior and when indicated, decision making. All

practicals must also include an assessment of safety.

Safety must be weighed such that a student who is

unsafe during the practical will not pass the practical.

Students must achieve a grade of 74.6% or better on all

practicals. In the event that a student performs lower

than a 74.6%, the instructor will determine whether the

student will be permitted to re-take the practical and

what, if any remediation, will take place.

Practical dress code will be provided by the instructor in

the course syllabi.

Note: Exceptions may be made to the policy above in individual

courses as noted on the course syllabus.

Classwork Re-Takes

Policy 14

The decision to require/allow a student to re-take an

exam, practical, quiz, in-class assignment and/or final is

made solely by the instructor. The instructor is in no

way obligated to allow a student to re-take an exam,

practice, quiz, in-class assignments and/or final.

Classwork Make-Up

Policy 15

Students who are unable to attend a scheduled exam,

quiz, in-class assignment, final exam or practical

must notify the program office and the instructor

prior to or at least within 24 hours of the scheduled

exam, quiz, in-class assignment, final exam or

practical. Written documentation of the reason for

absence at the exam must be submitted to the

instructor within 48 hours of the scheduled exam,

quiz, in-class assignment, final exam or practical.

The instructor can do any of the following:

•

Award a zero for the exam, quiz, in-class

assignment, final exam or practical.

•

Allow the student to take the exam at a later date

and time without a penalty. Failure to take the exam

on the indicated date and time may result in an “F”

for the course.

•

Allow the student to take the exam at a later date

and time but average the grade of the exam with a

score of zero from the exam missed. Failure to take

the exam on the indicated date and time may result

in an “F” for the course.

•

Allow the student to take a make-up exam at a later

date and time without penalty. Such a make-up may

be in any format desired by the instructor and may

include oral portions. Failure to take the make-up

exam on the indicated date and time may result in an

“F” for the course.

•

Allow the student to take a make-up exam at a later

date and time and subtract up to 50 points. Such

a make-up may be in any format desired by the

instructor and may include oral portions. Failure to

take the make-up exam on the indicated date and

time may result in an “F” for the course.

The decision about the make-up is made solely by the

instructor. The decision of the instructor is final.

Note: Exceptions may be made to the policy above in individual

courses as noted on the course syllabus.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 15

Grading Scale

Policy 16

The recommended grading scale for the PT

program shall be as follows:

92.0-100

A-

88.0-91.9

B+

83.0- 87.9

74.6-82.9

69.6-74.5

69.5 or below

Each student must achieve a minimum of 74.6% to

successfully complete each course. Students must

realize that 74.6 is the minimum passing grade. As

noted on the course syllabus, a student attaining less

than 75% on any exam, assignment or project,

including a final exam, may be required to meet with

the course instructor two days after the return of

the exam, assignment or project. The student may be

required to do remedial work, as assigned by the

instructor. In the event that a student passes a course

but has done so by a minimal amount, the student

may be required to perform additional work. The

decision is left solely to the course instructor. It is

the Policy of the Physical Therapy program that a

grade of “B” or better or a grade of “P” in courses

graded as “Pass/Fail” must be achieved in all PT

courses in order for a student to progress in the

program.

A student who is unable to complete all course

requirements by the end of the semester, may

receive a grade of “I” (incomplete). A student may

not progress in the program until the “I” grade has

been resolved and replaced by a letter grade of B or

better. (See Assignment of an Incomplete). Students

should note that the grade of “D” is not given in

graduate level courses. Students should also be aware

that clinical courses are graded as “Pass / Fail”.

Standards for each are given in course syllabi.

Note: An instructor has the right to use an alternate

grading scale. Exceptions may be made to the policy above

in individual courses as noted on the course syllabus.

Academic and Non-Academic

Misconduct

Policy 17

The Physical Therapy program is committed to

educating students to assume the role of a

physical therapy professional. Such a role is

guided by the American Physical Therapy

Association’s Code of Ethics

and stresses

ethics, adherence to acceptable

professional

behavior and avoidance of misconduct.

Therefore, the program will not tolerate any

forms of academic or non-academic

misconduct. It is each student’s responsibility

to know and comply with the University’s

Student Code of Conduct (SCOC) and/or

Rules and Regulations of the University of

Cincinnati. The SCOC applies to student

conduct that occurs on campus or University

owned, leased or controlled premises as well as

off-campus conduct. Students who violate the

SCOC, University Rules and Regulations,

APTA Code of Ethics and/or the law are

subject to dismissal from the PT program.

1 American Physical Therapy Association’s Code of Ethics

(https://www.apta.org/)

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 16

Non-academic misconduct is described in the

SCOC and includes criminal offenses such as theft,

disturbing the peace, etc. In addition, since the PT

program is a professional program, non-academic

misconduct may also include behavior that is not

specifically described in the SCOC such as

inappropriate professional behavior. Instances of

student misconduct resulting in criminal

investigation must be reported to the PT Program

Director.

It is the responsibility of the student to report all

criminal investigations, arrests, convictions and

guilty pleas for any offense other than minor traffic

violations to the PT Program Director as soon as

possible after the occurrence but no later than seven

calendar days after

the occurrence. The reporting

requirement includes DUI (driving under the

influence) and OVI (operating a vehicle while

intoxicated) offenses, any instance where the student

is called into court as a defendant or any instance

where the student is named a defendant in a lawsuit.

If it is found that a student fails to report such an

occurrence, the student is subject to immediate

dismissal from the program.

The PT Program Director will report any violation

of the SCOC, University Rules and Regulations,

APTA Code of Ethics and/or the law to the

Department Head, and, as appropriate, to the

Dean of the College and, as appropriate, to the

University Office of Legal Affairs and General

Counsel, as soon as possible without unnecessary

delay. The PT Program Director, in conjunction

with the Department Head and the Dean and in

consultation with the University Office of Legal

Affairs and General Counsel, will determine

whether any violation of the SCOC, University

Rules and Regulations, APTA Code of Ethics

and/or the law should be reported to the program

faculty for a faculty hearing.

If it is determined that a faculty hearing is

warranted, the PT Program Director will arrange a

meeting with the student involved in the

occurrence and the program faculty. Every effort

will be made to arrange the meeting at a time when

the full faculty is available. However, due to varied

schedules and responsibilities of the faculty,

this

may not be possible. The meeting will be scheduled

as soon as possible without unnecessary delay. The

purpose of the meeting is to determine if the

student should be dismissed from the program.

The student is permitted to bring an advisor to the

meeting. The advisor must be a university

employee. The student will have 15 minutes to

address the faculty followed by 15 minutes of

questions from the faculty. The student’s advisor is

not permitted to address the faculty but may confer

with the student during the hearing. Dismissal will

be determined by a simple majority vote of the

faculty at the meeting. Results of the hearing will be

verbally conveyed to the student at the conclusion

of the hearing followed by written notification

within one week of the hearing.

In keeping with the APTA Code of Ethics,

students who observe alleged instances of non-

academic misconduct should consider reporting

such instances to the PT Program Director or

another faculty member. Students who report

misconduct that results in a faculty hearing may

be asked to attend a meeting with the faculty

prior to the hearing.

Students in the PT program found to be

responsible for violating the Student Code of

Conduct and/or academic standards or who are

found to be involved in academic dishonesty may

receive an “F” in the course in which the

violation or the academic dishonesty occurred

and may be dismissed from the Physical Therapy

program. While students are referred to the

University of Cincinnati’s Student Code of

Conduct and the Graduate

Student Handbook

for additional information, students should be

aware that the following are behaviors that shall

be considered academically dishonest:

Aiding and Abetting Academic Misconduct

Knowingly helping, procuring, or encouraging

another person to engage in academic misconduct.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 17

Cheating

Any dishonesty or deception in fulfilling an

academic requirement such as:

1. Use and/or possession of unauthorized

material or technological devices during an

examination (any written or oral work

submitted for evaluation and/or grade).

2. Obtaining assistance with or answers to

examination questions from another person

with or without that person’s knowledge.

3. Furnishing assistance with or answers

to examination questions to another

person.

4. Possessing, using, distributing or

selling

unauthorized copies of an

examination or computer program.

5. Representing as one’s own an examination

taken by another person.

6. Taking an examination in place of

another person.

7. Obtaining unauthorized access to the

computer files of another person or agency

and/or altering or destroying those files.

Fabrication

The falsification of any information, research

statistics, lab data, or citation in an academic

exercise.

Plagiarism

1. Submitting another’s published or

unpublished work in whole, in part or in

paraphrase, as one’s own without fully and

properly crediting the author with footnotes,

quotation marks, citations, or bibliographic

references.

2. Submitting as one’s own original work,

material obtained from an individual,

agency, or the internet without reference to

the person, agency or webpage as the

source of the material

3. Submitting as one’s own original work material that

has been produced through unacknowledged

collaboration with others without release in writing

from collaborators

Violating Ethical or Professional Standards

The violation of any ethical or professional standard

outlined by the College of Allied Health Sciences,

University or the Physical Therapy Code of Ethics.

Details regarding the process for dealing with

alleged academic misconduct can be found on the

website within Student Conduct & Community

Standards.

Assignment of an “Incomplete”

Policy 18

The grade “I” or incomplete is awarded at the

discretion of the faculty member when a student

fails to complete an element of the assigned work in

a course. An agreement is made between the

student and the faculty member about the

completion of the work and the date of the

completion. Specific performance levels and

consequences about non-completion and/or

completion below a specific level should be outlined.

The PT program recognizes that the grade “I” may

be submitted for a student in the program. When

a faculty member in the program determines that

an “I” is the appropriate grade, the faculty

member and the student will complete the PT

Incomplete Grade Form. This form includes the

following:

1. Student name and ID number

2. Faculty name

3. Course, course number, semester and year

4. Reason for “I”

5. Specific assignment(s) that must be

completed for the course

6. Date the specific assignment(s)

must be completed

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 18

7. Consequences of non-completion of

assignment

Both the faculty member and the student must sign

the form when the “I” is utilized. In addition, the

faculty member must complete Part II of the form

within one week of the date the assignment is due.

Part II must indicate the final disposition of the

student’s status in the course. The original form will

be placed in the student’s file with a copy sent to the

student.

While the PT program leaves the assignment of

the “I” grade to the individual faculty member,

consistent student performance is necessary to

assure clinical competency. The PT program

recognizes that extenuating circumstances may

exist in which the grade of “I” may be granted in

more than one class. Appropriate reasons for an

“I” may include illness, death in the family, military

assignments, surgery, medical leaves and other

reasons which have been approved by the program

faculty. In the event that one or more grades of

“I” are earned during a semester(s), the program

faculty will meet to determine if continuation in

the program is appropriate for the student. It is

also recognized that the grade of “I” is not

appropriate when a student has completed all

assignments but has failed to achieve a grade of

“B”. In such cases, the grade earned by the

student will be recorded.

Students should be aware that PT courses have pre-

requisite course requirements that must be met prior

to the commencement of the course. Therefore, if

a student has a grade of “I” in such a pre-requisite

course that has not been resolved prior to the start

of a new academic term, the student will be

prohibited from enrolling in subsequent PT courses.

If this occurs, the student must complete the

requirements necessary to change the “I” grade to a

letter grade and enroll in the PT course the next

time it is offered. Students who are unable to

progress in the program due to an “I” grade must

request a leave of absence as outlined in the Leave

of Absence policy. The Incomplete Grade Form can

be found in the Appendices.

Professional Behaviors

Policy 19

Through research, ten physical therapy-specific

Professional Behaviors have been identified and are

required for success in the profession. These

behaviors, attributes or characteristics are not

explicitly part of a professional’s core of knowledge

and technical skills, but equally important, these

behaviors have been validated as defining

professional behavior in physical therapy (May, et.

al, 1995). These behaviors were initially identified as

Generic Abilities. With the evolution of our

profession and healthcare, a second investigation

into this area by May, et al (2009) warranted a

revision of the Generic Abilities to become the

Professional Behaviors. Students in the physical

therapy program must satisfactorily exemplify the

ten PT specific professional behaviors and the three

level of associated behavioral criteria throughout the

PT program.

The intent of the Professional Behaviors

Assessment Tool is to identify and describe the

repertoire of professional behaviors deemed

necessary for success in the practice of physical

therapy. This Professional Behaviors Assessment

Tool is intended to represent and be applied to

student growth and development in the classroom

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 19

and the clinic. It also contains behavioral criteria for

the practicing clinician. Each Professional Behavior

is defined and then broken down into

developmental levels with each level containing

specific behavioral criteria. The behavioral criteria

are examples of behaviors one might demonstrate

and are not exhaustive. Each developmental level

builds on the previous level such that the tool

represents growth over time in physical therapy

education and practice. The Professional Behaviors

Assessment Tool allows the student to build and

strengthen skills in the affective domain in order to

augment the cognitive and psychomotor domains. A

sample and link to the entire Professional Behaviors

Tool is located in the Appendices.

Opportunities to reflect on each Professional

Behavior through self-assessment, and through peer

and instructor assessment is critical for progress

toward entry level performance in the classroom and

clinic. A student does not need to possess each

behavioral criteria identified at each level within the

tool, however, should demonstrate, and be able to

provide examples of the majority in order to

progress from one level to the next.

Satisfactory progress is demonstrated by exhibiting

consistent growth from the Beginning Level criteria

to Intermediate Level and eventually to Entry Level

by the end of all clinical education experiences. The

Professional Behaviors has an additional category,

Post- Entry Level, where the student’s behavior

would be consistent with an autonomous

practitioner. This level is not required for the

students to achieve; however, it facilitates students

to become lifelong learners as they embark upon

their professional careers.

The Professional Behaviors are:

1. Critical thinking

2. Communication

3. Problem Solving

4. Interpersonal Skills

5. Responsibility

6. Professionalism

7. Use of constructive feedback

8. Effective use of time and resources

9. Stress Management

10. Commitment to Learning

Mastery of these behaviors facilitates the ability to:

1. Generalize from one context to another

2. Integrate information from different sources

3. Apply knowledge and skills in the practice

setting

4. Synthesize cognitive, affective and

psychomotor behavior

5. Interact effectively with clients, families, the

community, and other professionals

It is critical that students, academic and clinical faculty

utilize the Professional Behaviors Assessment Tool in

the context of physical therapy and not life

experiences. For example, a student may possess

strong communication skills in the context of student

life and work situations, however, they may be in the

process of developing their physical therapy

communication skills, those necessary to be

successful as a professional in a greater health care

context. One does not necessarily translate to the

other, and thus must be used in the appropriate

context to be effective.

During the first and second years of the PT program,

students perform a Professional Behaviors self-

assessment which is reviewed by their faculty advisor.

Students in their third year are not required to meet

with their faculty advisor as they are off campus most

of the semester, however these students will have a

professional behaviors final touchpoint in spring term

while in the clinic.

If a student is not progressing satisfactorily or if

problems such as inappropriate behaviors are

identified, the student will receive individual feedback

regarding the inappropriate behavior and/or level of

behavior. The Student will then develop a draft of a

plan that is designed to remediate the behavior to the

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 20

required level. Upon approval of the faculty, the plan

will be implemented and completed according to the

timelines accepted by both the student and faculty.

Failure to satisfactorily complete the plan or to reach

the appropriate level of professional behavior in the

agreed upon timeframe may result in delay in

progression through the program or dismissal from

the program.

Professional behavior is, without exception, required.

A student who displays unprofessional behavior will

be made aware of the behavior and the consequences

of such behavior. This is necessary to provide the

student with an opportunity to facilitate personal

growth and development. Students who observe a

fellow student acting in an unprofessional manner are

encouraged to report such behavior to a faculty

member.

The following guidelines are offered to serve as a

general course of action.

For less severe incidents: The faculty member will meet

with the student to discuss the behavior observed by the

faculty member, staff or other student(s). The faculty

member will listen to the student’s response to the

concern and offer ways in which to resolve the situation.

Documentation of this meeting is optional but may be

discussed at the end of term faculty meeting.

For recurring or multiple incidents: The student will

be placed on a professional behaviors plan. The

student, appropriate faculty member and/or faculty

advisor will work together to ensure that the plan

adequately addresses the remediation of the

professional behaviors with appropriate

consequences if the plan is not carried out. Every

effort should be made to ensure that the plan is

implemented within 2 weeks of the incident.

For serious incidents or egregious behavior: The

student will be informed that the incident will be

reported to the PT faculty who will determine the

next course of action which will be communicated in

writing to the student and further discussed in a

meeting with the program director. Every attempt

will be made to schedule the meeting within 2 weeks

of the incident. Consequences may range from

development of a professional behavior plan to

dismissal from the program. Certain behaviors may

be more appropriately dealt with according to the

policy on Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct.

Web-based Professional Behaviors

Acknowledgement of the virtual environment

expected professional behaviors are important to be

explicitly understood. The below 10

Commandments of Virtual Professional Behavior

Expectation was developed and refined by the DPT

students in the program during 2020.

1. Avoid personal distractions by:

a. Not using phone and place in “do not

disturb” mode.

b. Close out of tabs that are not relevant

to the class to avoid distractions.

c. Only use one screen .

2. Establish a quiet environment by letting

others know in your space that you are in

class.

3. Do not talk over others.

4. Stay engaged during class and be respectful by

paying attention.

5. Be encouraging of others ideas and thoughts.

6. Be aware of your mute/video on button and

what setting they are in.

7. Be sure to be on time and ready to go once

class starts.

8. Be appropriately dressed.

9. Demonstrate an inquisitive nature by asking

questions in class of instructor or peers and

likewise respond out loud to questions posed

by instructors or classmates.

10. Respond to cues to turn on video.

Borrowing Equipment

Policy 20

There may be instances when a student wishes to

borrow equipment owned by the department to

practice a technique, complete research, study for an

exam, etc. The student must receive permission

from the faculty member who teaches the class

which is associated with the specific equipment and

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 21

must obtain the equipment from the faculty

member or a person designated by the faculty

member. A student is only permitted to borrow

equipment if the department owns multiples of the

equipment and there is at least one remaining piece

of equipment in the storage room or classroom.

Borrowed equipment must be returned to the same

faculty member. Models may not be borrowed but

may be used for study in the program classrooms.

It is recognized that the quality of a given course

may be enhanced through the use of equipment not

owned by the University of Cincinnati. It is also

recognized that facilities, companies and/or

individuals are often willing to allow their equipment

or resources to be used during class periods.

To assure the proper handling and care of such

equipment, the PT program will follow the

procedures listed below.

1. The faculty member or a staff member

assigned by the faculty member in charge

of the course in which the equipment is

going to be used will make all

arrangements for equipment.

2. Only a faculty or staff member may pick

up the equipment.

3. Only a faculty or staff member may

return the equipment.

Student Use of PT Labs

Policy 21

The PT labs are to be utilized to facilitate

learning. Only students in the PT, Occupational

Therapy (OT) program or in the final two years

of the HLSC program are permitted to utilize

the labs outside of scheduled class times. As

outlined in the laboratory rules, conduct in the

labs must be professional, ethical, legal and safe

at all times. Th e utmos t respe ct fo r th e

eq ui pme nt is e xpe c ted a t a ll time s.

Laboratory activities must be limited to the

equipment or techniques which students have

been instructed in during class and only for the

express, sole purpose of increasing competence.

Use of equipment, machines or assistive devices

for any other reason is prohibited.

Students may utilize the lab when the lab is not

being used for a scheduled class, class activity or

department activity. Students are not to prop

doors open or leave the rooms unsecured. When

finished in the lab, students must assure that the

doors to the lab are closed and locked and lights

are turned off.

Students in violation of this policy are subject to

dismissal from the PT program.

Note: For safety and security reasons students should

work in pairs or small groups. During evening hours,

NightRide (513)

556-RIDE (7433) is available.

NightRide is a student-run night time shuttle service. It

exists to provide safe and reliable transportation to and

from transportation to and from locations within a one-

mile radius around the UC campus. Similar to a cab

company, students,

faculty and staff can call NightRide

to pick them up and take

them to/from places on and off

campus. NightRide is available

during fall and spring

semesters.

Students should also call security if safety is a

concern or if an emergency arises (911) for

emergencies or (513) 556-1111 or (513) 558-1111

for non-emergencies.

Laboratory Rules

Policy 22

The following rules are to be observed in all PT

Labs:

1. The PT Labs are to be utilized only by students

enrolled in the PT, OT and final two years of

the HLSC program unless special permission is

granted by a faculty member.

2. The PT Labs are available for independent use

by the above qualified individuals twenty-four hours

a day, seven days a week when not in a global

pandemic. During such time, student lab time will be

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 22

designated at the beginning of each term. If

additional lab time is needed, it will be coordinated

with the PT Program Director.

3. Students participating in independent use of the

lab will only utilize equipment for which they have

been properly trained.

4. Students will utilize equipment for the sole

purpose of becoming competent in its use.

5. Equipment will be utilized only for its intended

purpose and following its use, will be returned to

the proper location and the condition in which it

was found.

6. All equipment must be turned off, with intensity

and other controls returned to a zero position.

7. All wheelchair parts, including arm and leg rests,

must be re-assembled on the appropriate

wheelchair and stored neatly. At no point should

wheelchair parts be place on plinths.

8. Any malfunctioning or damaged equipment must

be reported to a faculty member immediately.

9. Students must follow the department policy for

borrowing equipment (Borrowing Equipment).

Equipment may not be taken home or off the

premises of the University.

10. All equipment, except the hydro collator

unit, cold pack unit and paraffin bath, will be

unplugged following use.

11. All lotions and oils should be capped after use

and stored away from heat sources. Students are

required to refill used bottles.

12. All individuals utilizing the lab are responsible for

maintaining the lab in a clean, orderly fashion.

13. Students are responsible for providing their own

clean sheets, pillowcases and towels.

14. Linen & other equipment will be returned to its

marked location for storage after each use. Linens

left in the lab will be placed in a laundry basket in

the back of the lab. Unclaimed linens will be

removed at the end of each semester.

15. Equipment and tables are to be cleaned after each

use using the disinfectant spray bottles.

16. Appropriate attire is required at all times.

17. The use of sheets & pillowcases on treatment tables

are required when performing treatment

procedures.

18. Coats, books & other articles should be stored

lockers to avoid tripping & injury. Laptop

computers must also be stored during lab sessions.

Damage to a laptop that is not properly stored

during a lab session will be the responsibility of

owner.

19. All spills are to be cleaned up immediately.

20. Any injuries must be reported to faculty or staff

member immediately. If an injury occurs when no

faculty or staff are present, the incident must be

reported to the PT Program Director at the next

available opportunity. An incident report detailing

the injury and the circumstances surrounding it

must be completed by the students involved in the

incident. If an injury requires medical attention

while faculty are not present or if emergency

medical attention is required, the student is advised

to call 911. The student incident report can be

found in the Appendices.

21. The phones in the lab are NOT for student use

except in the case of an emergency.

22. Students misusing equipment or in violation of

laboratory regulations will be prohibited from

attending or using the lab.

23. Students are not to use the lab for any reason other

than listed above without receiving permission.

24. Students are not permitted to use the lab for any

unethical (as described by the APTA Code of

Conduct) or illegal acts. Students involved in such

activities will be prohibited from attending or using

the lab and will be terminated from the program.

All equipment, at a minimum, is calibrated and/or

checked for safety by a professional annually. Logs

are kept by the Program Coordinator. Since the labs

are used very heavily by many students, it is

imperative to clean and organize the labs on a

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 23

weekly basis. A cleaning schedule will be e-mailed to

all PT students at the beginning of the semester.

The cleaning schedule will also be posted in the

labs. If a student is assigned to clean the labs and is

unable to do so, the student must find an alternate

to assume their cleaning duties. The following duties

must be completed by the assigned cleaning crews

in rooms HSB 200, 215, 225 and 243:

•

All equipment must be returned to its

proper location.

•

Pillows must be placed on the shelves in the back

of the rooms on cabinets.

•

Garbage should be picked up from the floor,

tables etc. and deposited in the garbage cans.

•

Tables should be wiped down with the

disinfectant spray.

•

Chalk boards and white boards should be cleaned.

•

Check water levels in hydrocollator units and add

water as needed.

•

Floors should be swept. If the floors are in need of

mopping, please notify the office staff so that

maintenance can be contacted.

•

The plinths should routinely be checked for

stability

and for loose screws and reported to the

program coordinator for repair.

Cleaning the labs is considered part of a

student’s

professional responsibilities. Failure to

follow through with assigned cleaning duties will

be considered unacceptable professional

behavior and will be dealt with accordingly. (See

Professional Behavior policy).

Dress Code

Policy 23

All students must adhere to a uniform dress code

when visiting a clinic site as part of a class and

when attending clinical rotations. Unacceptable

dress or appearance could lead to course failure.

Good personal hygiene must be practiced as part of

conforming to the dress code. Students should

contact the facility where they will be performing

their clinical rotation to inquire about their dress

code and should adhere by that dress code.

If the facility does not have a dress code, students

should wear the PT program uniform:

•

Students will wear khaki, navy or dark pants, a

button-down shirt, polo or appropriate top.

•

Shoes must have no more than a one-inch heel,

be closed toed and heeled, and made of leather or

vinyl. Tie-up shoes must be tied.

•

A program nametag must be worn at all times.

•

Hair that reaches the collar or lower must be

tied back.

•

No jewelry other than watches, small earrings,

and wedding bands.

•

No colognes, perfumes or heavily scented hair

products.

•

No hats.

•

Clothing must always be neat and clean.

•

Students must NEVER wear: midriff tops, tops

which expose the midriff when the arms are raised,

see-through tops (even with another top

underneath), pants whose hems drag the floor, ill-

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 24

fitting pants, tank tops, sleeveless tops, shirts with

logos or sayings (exception: shirts which bear the

logo of the clinical site or the UC logo, if they are

acceptable to the site).

•

Shoes must be flat and made of leather or vinyl and

completely enclose the foot. No open toed or

heeled shoes or

sandals are allowed.

•

Armpits must be covered at all times when working

with patients.

•

False fingernails are not permitted.

•

No fingernails visible above the fingertip.

•

No front or back cleavage is permitted.

•

No visible tattoos.

•

No body piercings other than the earlobe. No more

than two earlobe piercings per ear are permitted.

•

Students should have hair color that occurs naturally

(no pink, purple, green, blue, etc. hair color during

clinical experiences).

Use of Electronic Devices

Policy 24

The use of any electronic device(s) beyond a laptop

during scheduled class or exam periods is strictly

prohibited unless students are instructed otherwise

by the course instructor. If a student has a need to

use this type of equipment, the student must receive

permission from the course instructor. It is NOT

acceptable to place cell phones on vibrate or to

participate in text messaging during class or exams

unless instructed to do so by the instructor.

Laptop computers powered by a battery source may be

used during lecture as indicated by the course instructor

but NOT during exams or lab sessions. Power cords

may be used as needed but all attempts will be made to

limit this to minimize potential tripping hazards.

Laptop computers must be stored during lab sessions.

Damage to a laptop computer during lecture or a lab

session will be the responsibility of the student who

owns the laptop.

Hazardous Materials and Potential

Health Risks

Policy 25

Students are advised that formaldehyde and other

chemical substances are used in the preparation

and preservation of anatomical specimens. Cadaver

dissections and the use of prosections are part of the

PT program curriculum. It is the student’s

responsibility to discuss any concerns they might

have about these substances and potential risks of

contact with these substances with their own

physician. In addition, laboratories and/or clinical

facilities may house materials that could be hazardous.

Proper adherence to the appropriate procedures when

in contact with these materials must be practiced. It is

the student’s responsibility to request, from clinical

facilities, policies concerning hazardous materials and

to follow these policies.

Students are advised that during the course of the

program, they may be exposed to individuals who

have communicable diseases. Hand washing is

recommended to reduce the spread of certain

communicable diseases. Additionally, the utilization

of masks and/or gloves may be required when

working with patients in clinical settings or if a

patient/community member comes to a class as a

guest. Standard precautions such as recommended

immunizations are in place to protect the student,

however any concerns a student may have regarding

the potential of exposure should be discussed with

the student’s physician. In cases where a student is

engaged in an activity which could result in contact

with body fluids, the student is advised to follow

universal precautions as outlined by the Centers for

Disease Control (CDC): Universal Precautions.

Additional information on can be found at:

Healthcare Associated Infections .

In each year of the program, students are required to

complete an educational module on blood borne

pathogens. Students assigned to a clinical site must

follow the precautions recommended by the site.

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 25

Student Expenses

Policy 26

In addition to the usual costs of university tuition

and fees, program fees, educational materials and

textbooks, the students should be prepared for the

following expenses:

Malpractice Insurance

Students are covered under the University’s

malpractice insurance policy for program related

incidents.

Uniforms & Supplies

The purchase of at least one nametag is necessary.

Cost: Approximately $8

The following items are required and should be

purchased by the student:

1. Nametag

2. Lab clothes which allow for posterior exposure

of trunk from occiput to sacrum along with

abdomen and anterior upper chest

3. Locker padlock

4. Guide to Physical Therapy Practice (available

online as part of the APTA membership)

As a convenience, a student PT kit containing a

number of items needed for class/lab will be

provided by the program.

Program Fees

Students will be assessed a program fee of $215 per

semester. Students must also be prepared to assume

reasonable costs of research projects that are not

covered by grant funding including but not limited to

transportation costs to research sites, costs of

presentation materials such as posters, etc.

Medical Examination

Students, at their own expense, must have a physical

examination and required health forms completed by

their physician on a yearly basis. In addition,

immunization, as required by the PT program, must be

completed prior to the beginning of clinical education

experiences. Please see the sample sheet in the

appendices. Students are required to submit a medical

history, immunization records and related health forms

to the University Health Services on a yearly basis and to

the program’s secured, web-based platform (Exxat) on an

ongoing basis. Students are advised failure to adhere to

deadlines

or upload documents in a timely manner may

result in clinical education experiences being canceled,

and therefore, may result in delayed graduation.

Note: All documents must be uploaded in PDF format.

Health Insurance

All students are required to carry health insurance.

Specific information, including costs and instructions to

waive student health insurance if you are covered by

another policy can be found at University Health

Services.

Needlestick (Bloodborne pathogens) Insurance

Students who purchase Student Health Insurance

through the University receive Needlestick Insurance

coverage as part of the basic policy. This will cover costs

associated with follow-up care following a Bloodborne

pathogen exposure.

Students who do not purchase Student Health Insurance

will be assessed a $31 annual fee for a Needlestick

Insurance policy which will appear on the student bill (as

Bloodborne Pathogen Insurance) the first semester of

enrollment of each year.

APTA Student Membership

APTA membership is required each year a student is

enrolled in the PT program. Membership is

approximately $90 per year.

Clinical Expenses

Students are responsible for all costs related to the

Physical Therapy Practice clinical experiences. Students

must be prepared to attend a clinical rotation outside of

the Cincinnati area and to assume responsibility for all

travel, room and board arrangements and costs

associated with these placements. The student’s “out of

town rotation” budget needs to include: tuition

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 26

payments, travel, lodging, food, etc. The cost varies

dramatically depending upon if the student is able to

stay with family/friends during the rotation and the

location of the rotation. For example, the cost can be

$500 if staying in Ohio to $2000 for a rotation in

Chicago. Expense reports from previous students are

available in the Clinical Education Office for current

students to review. Students doing clinical experiences

still have the usual financial obligations to the University.

“Out of town” is considered to be 100 miles distance from

3225 Eden Ave Cincinnati, OH 45267 (the Health

Sciences Building). Please note that for larger healthcare

systems, the final placement within the hospital system is

up to the clinical site. Students are assigned to a facility.

The clinical site assigns the clinical instructor and specific

location within the clinical site based on clinical instructor

availability.

Books

Books are estimated to cost between $500 and $700/

semester. Course materials must also be purchased.

Please note that this is an average cost over the length

the program. The cost of books in the first year,

especially the first two semesters may be higher.

CPR Certification

CPR certification is required and must be maintained

throughout the length of the program. Students must

be certified in adult, child and infant CPR. Successful

completion of CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and

Healthcare Providers offered by The American Red

Cross or the Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare

Providers course offered by the American Heart

Association fulfills the CPR requirement. Online courses do

not fulfill the CPR requirement.

Students are responsible for all costs associated with

certification

and/or re-certification. Students are advised

that failure to submit documentation of CPR certification

by the required deadline will prevent the student from

participating in the clinical education process.

Communication with Students

Policy 27

All students enrolled in the PT program will receive a

University e-mail account. It is the student’s responsibility to

be sure their University e-mail account is activated.

Important University and program information will be

communicated via the University e-mail system; therefore,

students are advised to check their University accounts on a

daily basis. In addition, students are required to report any

changes in address

or phone number to the program office

in a timely manner.

Students will automatically be signed up for the University

of Cincinnati’s emergency text-messaging service. UC

Public Safety uses this emergency text- messaging system

only in the event of imminent or ongoing threats to campus

safety and security and in the case of a delay or closure. The

program highly recommends obtaining the free Bearcat

Guardian app as it is a state of the art safety app that allows

the user to turn your cell phone into a safety device. It works

on any mobile phone running on any US-based mobile

carrier network. For further information, use this link:

https://www.uc.edu/about/publicsafety/services/guardian-

app.html

Students should be aware that most program faculty utilize

Canvas for their courses. Important course information may

be posted under announcements on Canvas and students

may be required to submit assignments via Canvas. Students

must be registered for a course to access the Canvas site for

that course. Students should check the course syllabus

regarding the use of Canvas for a specific course. Clinical

Education courses use a variety of platforms including

Exxat, Canvas, and Teams. Students will have an

introduction to each of these platforms during their time in

the program. Communication during clinical education

experiences occurs through Teams Video, Teams Audio,

Teams Chat, and University email accounts.

Disability Accommodations

Policy 28

Students with a disability are eligible to receive a variety of

support services. To receive academic accommodations, a

student must be registered with the Accessibility Resources

Office

and have an accommodation form that lists in-class

and test accommodations. Accommodation forms must be

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 27

presented to the course instructor during the first week of

class of each semester. Students who require

accommodations to meet the program essential functions

are required to register with the Accessibility Resources

Office on West Campus at 210 University Pavilion (513)

556-6823 or Accessibility Resources. Students are advised

that certain disabilities can interfere with a student’s ability

to complete the program of study and acquire the essential

functions necessary for the practice of physical

therapy.

Reasonable accommodations can be made to compensate

for some, but not all, limitations. Students should be aware

that those that interfere with patient care, safety or require

the use of an intermediary may be incompatible with

independent professional practice. A student who is unable

to fulfill the essential functions

may be dismissed from the

program.

Subject Participation in Lab Activities and

Clinical Rotations

Policy 29

Student Subjects

As part of the PT curriculum, students will be

participating in laboratory activities and clinical rotations in

which they may be requested to assume the role of

“patient” or “subject” or “treating therapist.” It is the

student’s responsibility to inform the course instructor of

any health concerns related to the student’s participation in

the laboratory activity prior to the beginning of class. If a

student has had a recent illness, injury, surgery, or other

medical problem that could limit their participation in

these activities, physically or cognitively, the student must

obtain a written note from their healthcare practitioner

specifying the restrictions or limitations. The student must

provide a note from their healthcare practitioner when

they are cleared to fully participate in lab activities or

released to full clinical duties or modified duty for their

clinical rotation. If participation is limited in clinical

rotation activities, early communication with the Director of

Clinical Education is important. This note must be given to

the PT Program Director who will inform the faculty of

the restrictions. The student’s safety is of utmost

importance.

A student who is unable to fully participate in class, clinic

rotation and/or lab activities and is unable to acquire and

demonstrate the skills and knowledge required to

successfully complete a course by the end of the term

will not pass the course. At the instructor’s discretion,

the student may be assigned an “I” grade and may be

required to take a leave of absence from the program.

In addition, students are advised that laboratory activities

are for the

purposes of demonstration, instruction and

practice and are not intended to be therapeutic or

diagnostic for the

student. Students are required to sign

the Consent and Release form for Participation in PT

Lab Activities as a Student Subject at the start of each

academic year.

Community Participants as Subjects

On occasion, an individual from the community

may participate as a “patient” in a laboratory activity.

Consent must be obtained from these individuals

prior to their participation. The instructor is

responsible for assuring completion of the consent

form and maintaining these records. Students are

reminded that HIPAA standards of privacy apply to

the information shared by these individuals and the

results of any examination or evaluation completed as

part of the laboratory activity. In addition, if a

“patient” is to be videotaped or photographed, it is

the responsibility of the faculty member to obtain a

photo/videotape release. If a student is videotaping a

“patient” for an assignment, the student must obtain

the photo/videotape release and submit it with their

assignment.

Students are required to delete images, photo and

videotape from their devices once the assignment is

complete and the grade has been recorded to ensure

maintenance of patient privacy.

Consent forms for PT Lab Activities are located in

the Appendices.

Community Requests

As a physical therapy student, there will be infrequent

volunteer and work requests for your services by

community stakeholders. The physical therapy

program director will forward these opportunities to

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 28

the student body for consideration. In no way are

these forwarded emails vetted by the program

director. It is up to the student to consider if they have

the time to commit to these volunteer and/or job

requests. The student must also understand what is

within their scope as an unlicensed person to provide

care that will not extend beyond what they are

permitted to do by law in the state of Ohio. They need

to determine the liability involved as well as be aware

that they would be acting outside of the malpractice

insurance coverage of the university. If students have

any questions about these requests, they are advised to

discuss this with the physical therapy program

director.

Additional Requirements

Policy 30

Additional testing, training, or other requirements are

necessary for the student at various times within the

program. The student is responsible for obtaining or

completing these requirements and paying all associated

fees. A list of current requirements and deadline dates

for their completion can be found in the appendix.

Students are advised that this list is not all inclusive as

other requirements may be added as necessary during

the year.

Appeal & Complaints Process

Policy 31

Appeals

A student has the right to appeal a dismissal decision or

any other decision which affects the student’s standing

in the program. A written appeal must be submitted to

the program director no later than 5 working days after

the decision has been rendered. The written appeal

should include a specific plan describing how the

student intends to address any deficiencies, professional

behavior issues, etc. A student who has been dismissed

is not permitted to continue in the program during the

appeal process. The written appeal will be distributed to

all program faculty members upon receipt. Decisions

based on academic factors will be appealed to the entire

faculty. Decisions based on non-academic factors, such

as professional behavior issues, will be appealed to a

Faculty Appeals Committee. This committee will be

appointed by the department head on an as needed

basis. The Appeals Committee will consist of 3

department members, one of whom should be the

student’s faculty advisor. A student who chooses to

appeal a decision based on either academic or non-

academic factors will be required to address the faculty

or Appeals Committee for a maximum of 15 minutes

at a meeting arranged by the program director. This will

be followed by a maximum of 15 minutes of questions

from the faculty/ committee.

Every attempt will be made to schedule an academic

appeal meeting at a time when all faculty are available

to attend; however, this may not be possible due to

varied faculty schedules. The appeals meeting will be

scheduled within 10 working days of receipt of the

appeal. The decision regarding the appeal will be

based on a majority vote of the full time faculty

present if the dismissal was for academic reasons or

the Appeals Committee in the case of dismissal for

non-academic reasons.

The decision will be conveyed to the student, in

writing, within 5 working days of the appeal meeting.

In the case of a tie vote, the student’s appeal will be

denied. Listed timelines exclude weekends, holidays,

and term breaks and anytime when the university is

not in session. Please note: this is a department

procedure and does not replace the Grievance

Procedure which is outlined in the Graduate Student

Handbook.

Complaints

Complaints – Due Process

Students who have an issue concerning a specific

course should initially discuss the issue with the

course instructor. If the problem persists and is not

satisfactorily resolved the student should discuss the

issue with their faculty advisor. If the problem

continues to persist, the student should bring the

matter to the attention of the Program Director. The

Program Director will attempt to intervene to reach

an agreement between the student and the course

instructor. If an acceptable resolution is not reached,

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 29

the Program Director will bring the matter to the

attention of the Department Head. Please note that

issues regarding course content and/or grades can

only be addressed by the course instructor. If a

student has an issue with a fellow student, faculty

member (who is not their course instructor) or a staff

member, the student should initially address the issue

directly with the individual involved. If the problem

persists and is not satisfactorily resolved the student

should discuss the issue with their faculty advisor. If

the problem continues to persist, the student should

bring the matter to the attention of the Program

Director. The Program Director will attempt to

intervene to reach an agreement between the student

and the other individual involved. If an acceptable

resolution is not reached, the Program Director will

bring the matter to the attention of the Department

Head.

Students are advised that they may seek the assistance

of the Office of the University Ombuds. The Office

of the University Ombuds is a safe and confidential

place for all members of the UC community to talk

about University related conflicts, issues or concerns.

The office staff will listen to your concerns and help

you identify options for successful resolution. Contact

information for the Office of the University Ombuds

is:

Office of the University Ombuds

Swift Hall, 2842 Campus Way

University of Cincinnati PO Box 210180

Cincinnati, OH 45221-0180

The University of Cincinnati’s Collective Bargaining

Agreement(CBA) outlines procedures for complaints

utilizing the Office of the University Ombuds as seen

on page 46:

9.1 - Student Complaints. In the event that a student

has a complaint against a Faculty Member, the

student should be encouraged to meet with the

Faculty Member, with the Ombudsperson or with the

Academic Unit Head in order to resolve the

complaint. It is preferable, but not required, that the

meeting be with the Faculty Member. If the student's

complaint remains unresolved, the student may

proceed under the Student Grievance Procedures, as

established by the Board from time to time. However,

a proceeding under this Article may be commenced

for any violation of the Contract regardless of any

prior or concurrent action taken under the Student

Grievance Procedure concerning the same or similar

issues. The University of Cincinnati’s Graduate

School has a formal Student Grievance Procedure.

This process is to be used when resolution of the

concern is not attained within the program or with

the assistance from the University Office of Ombuds.

Complaints – Outside of Due Process

Any student, faculty member, clinical site employee or

patient who have a concern or complaint that falls

outside of due process, has the ability to report their

complaint without concern for retaliation following

complaint submission. The first point of contact is the

Physical Therapy Program Director. If the complainant

is not satisfied with the process or resolution of the

complaint, they can register their complaint with, in

order, the Department Head, the Dean, the Provost, or

the President. For clinical education sites’ personnel

and/or patients, the first point of contact is the DCE.

The second point of contact is the Program Director.

For all other stakeholders including the public,

prospective students, and employers of graduates, the

Program Director is the first point of contact. As with

other complainants, they may register their complaints,

in order, with the Department Head, Dean, Provost or

President. Lastly, if any stakeholder has exhausted the

process and is not satisfied with the outcome within the

program and University, the stakeholder has the right to

contact the Commission on Accreditation of Physical

Therapy Education (CAPTE) to report any concerns or

complaints regarding the program.

CAPTE can be reached by phone at (1-800) 999-2782.

Please note that records of complaints about the

program, including the nature of the complaint and

the disposition of the complaint, are maintained by

the program. These processes are located in the

University ombudsman, graduate school and program

websites as well as the Collective Bargaining

Agreement, and the student handbook. Please see the

DPT Program Policies

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 30

Appendices for the electronic format of these

documents.

Recording of Complaints

Records of complaints are maintained in a file by the

program director.

Policy on Harassment/Abuse

Policy 32

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program is

committed to providing a positive learning

environment both in the classroom and in the

clinical setting. In order to achieve this goal, the

program has established standards of behaviors that

are based upon mutual respect of all individuals

involved in the learning process. No form of

student harassment or abuse is acceptable. Any

student who harasses/abuses another individual is

in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and is

subject to dismissal from the program.

Definition of Harassment/Mistreatment:

Harassment/Mistreatment is defined as any

behavior that is disrespectful and/or unreasonable

and may demonstrate a misuse of positional power.

Mistreatment includes but is not limited to the

following behaviors:

•

General Mistreatment (i.e., public humiliation or

belittlement, threats, personal service requests, physical

or verbal abuse)

•

Sexual Harassment (i.e., inappropriate comments, name

calling, jokes, slurs, gestures,

touches, advances of a sexual nature)

•

Racial Harassment (i.e., inappropriate comments, name

calling, jokes, slurs, gestures of a racial nature)

•

Sexual Orientation Harassment (i.e., inappropriate

comments, name, calling, jokes, slurs, gestures, touches,

advances of a sexual nature)

•

Religious Harassment (i.e., inappropriate comments,

name calling, jokes, slurs, gestures of a religious nature)

Relationships included:

•

Faculty to student

•

Clinical instructor to student

•

Supervisory/administrative personnel to student

•

Hospital/clinic personnel to student

•

Student to student

•

Student to faculty

•

Student to clinical instructor

•

Student to supervisory/administrative personnel

•

Student to hospital/clinic personnel

A student who has been the victim of any type of

harassment or abuse should report the incident to

the PT Program Director or another faculty

member. Harassment or abuse that has occurred

in the hospital or clinical setting should be

reported to the Director of Clinical Education

(DCE). Faculty and staff who receive a report of

a Title IX violation must report the incident to the

Title IX office. Additional assistance may be

obtained from the Office of the University

Ombuds and the Office of Equal Opportunity.

For more information, please see the University

Policies below:

Sexual Harassment

Discriminatory Harassment

Emergency Procedures

Additional Information

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 31

Additional Information

Additional testing, training, or other requirements are

necessary for the student at various times within the

program. The student is responsible for obtaining or

completing these requirements and paying all

associated fees. A list of current requirements and

deadline dates for their completion is in the appendix.

Students are advised that this list is not all inclusive as

other requirements may be added as necessary during

the year.

Student Lockers

Lockers are available for student use and will be

assigned by the PT Program Coordinator. Students

are advised to remove their belongings from their

lockers during extended breaks. If a lock must be

cut off a locker, any fees associated with the

removal will be paid by the student.

Student IDs

Student IDs are issued at the Office of Public

Safety in Edwards Three. IDs are issued every day

but students should call for specific hours (513)

556-4900. IDs are required for various

rights/privileges, including but not limited to,

admittance to the Health Science Building and the

Medical Sciences Building on evenings and

weekends, tickets to University sporting events, etc.

Students are advised to carry their student ID with

them at all times while on campus. Access to the

Health Science Building doorways requires your

student identification

swipe after business hours and

on weekends.

Donald C. Harrison Health Science Library

Traditionally, the main entrance doors to the

CARE/Crawley Building

and the Medical Sciences

Building are accessible via card access

ONLY from 7 PM to

6 AM, Sunday through Thursday, and 5

PM to 8 AM,

Friday through Saturday. Note that during global pandemic

times, access is only available through Bearcat card use. With

questions on how

to access the Donald C. Harrison Health

Sciences Library after

the building doors close, please call

(513) 558-0127.

Fitness Center at Care/Crawley (Campus

Recreation)

Payment of the University’s Campus Life Fee

entitles all full-time Physical Therapy student

access to the Campus Recreation Centers. The

Fitness Center at the Care/ Crawley Building is

located on E-level.

University Police

For emergencies dial 911. The University of

Cincinnati police provide campus safety services and

crime prevention. Other services include lost and

found reporting and crime statistic documentation.

Police main headquarters are at Three Edwards

Center, 51 West Corry Street, Cincinnati, Ohio

45221-0215. Non- emergency phone numbers are

(513) 556-1111 or (513) 558-1111.

UC Public Safety also recommends that students use

the Bearcat Guardian app. This app allows you to

turn your cell phone into a safety device. The app is

available for Apple and Google Play devices.

Parking Services

Parking services maintains the parking facilities and

sells parking passes to students, faculty and staff.

Students are encouraged to purchase their parking

passes as early

as possible for best selection. Parking

may be purchased via the web at

www.uc.edu/about/parking or in person at the

parking office:

West (Main) Campus Office

Four Edwards Center

51 W. Corry Blvd, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0624

Phone: (513) 556-2283

Motorist Assistance: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 3

p.m., call (513) 556-2283. After hours, call (513)

556-1111.

University Health Services

University Health Services (UHS) provides

primary care to all registered University of

Cincinnati students. UHS accepts most insurance.

Additional Information
 
University of Cincinnati                                                                                                                                DPT Student Handbook 32 
 
Students who have private insurance are advised to 
contact their insurance
 
company to verify coverage.  
In addition to primary care services, on-site specialty 
care is available in athletic, gynecology, dermatology, 
orthopedic, internal medicine  and mental health. 
Other on-site campus services include: laboratory, 
pharmacy, x-ray services, allergy  injections and an 
international travel clinic. A doctor is on call 24 
hours a day to advise students should an emergency 
arise when UHS is closed. All physicians are board 
certified.   
 
UC Student Health Insurance 
All students and their dependents enrolled for six or 
more credit hours at the University of Cincinnati 
are required to carry health insurance and are eligible 
for the Student Health Insurance program. All 
international  students on F-1 or J-1 visas are 
required to have health insurance. Students will be 
enrolled in the student health insurance plan unless 
they submit a waiver form to verify similar or better 
coverage through other insurance. The fee is 
assessed twice a year (Fall and Spring). An 
additional fee is assessed to students who request 
optional insurance for their dependents. Insurance 
enrollment and waiver forms are available online. 
 
Resource Websites
 
University of Cincinnati 
Information Technology  
College of Allied Health Sciences  
Department of Rehabilitation, Exercise, and 
Nutrition Sciences  
UC Student Code of Conduct  
UC Graduate School Website
 
Ohio PT Practice Act  
Kentucky PT Practice Act     
Indiana PT Practice Act     
American Physical Therapy Association 
Federation of State Boards of Physical 
Therapy

Clinical Education

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 33

Clinical Education Overview

Clinical education is an essential part of the Physical

Therapy program. The physical therapists and health

care facilities participating in the clinical program are

carefully screened and must share the PT program’s

commitment to excellence in patient care.

It is important to note that the entire faculty work as a team to

develop and implement the knowledge, skills and abilities

expectations for students to demonstrate so that students are

competent and safe in their clinical education experiences. It is the

responsibility of the faculty to ensure that students have the

foundational skillset to be successful in the clinical environment.

Hence, faculty determine which skills students must demonstrate

competent and safe performance prior to engaging in clinical

education.

The clinical experience is spread throughout the

student’s education. For the current cohorts, after the

first year, the student participates in the first clinical

rotation which is an eight-week, full-time rotation with

selected physical therapy clinics. After completing a

second year of coursework, students complete a

second full time rotation that is nine weeks in length.

The third clinical rotation occurs at the start of the fall

term and is nine weeks in length. Additional didactic

courses are then taken, after which students complete

their final twelve-week clinical experience. For the

incoming cohort, the students participate in the first

clinical rotation after the first four semesters of didactic

coursework. The clinical rotation is a nine-week, full-

time rotation. The students can be placed in any

practice setting except for pediatrics. After completing

two more semesters of coursework, students complete

a second full time clinical rotation that is twelve weeks

in length. Additional didactic courses are taken in a flex

semester, after which students complete their final

fourteen-week clinical education experience.

Note that every effort will be made to secure

appropriate and timely practicum experiences for each

student of the academic cohort. However, considering

the COVID-19 pandemic, student placements may be

postponed, interrupted, or cancelled as a result of the

clinical partners’ focus on providing services to those

in the community directly impacted by the virus. If this

situation were to occur, the Director of Clinical

Education will work to secure an alternative placement;

additionally, no guarantee can be made regarding an

on-time program completion due to the uncertain

progression of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Students must complete their clinical experiences in all

four practice patterns – musculoskeletal,

neuromuscular, integumentary, and cardiopulmonary.

Additionally, they must experience patient populations

across the lifespan in both inpatient and outpatient

settings. Students can also participate in more

specialized patient care areas including, but not limited

to, home health, sports medicine, pediatrics, wellness

clinics, hand therapy, burn hospitals or occupational

health.

Students participating in clinical rotations are still part

of the University and are expected to meet all financial

obligations and academic requirements of a student.

Students must adhere to the schedule assigned them by

the clinical site, including holiday/work schedules.

Defining Inpatient (IP) & Outpatient (OP)

Inpatient Criteria

Doctoral level students need to gain experience/

exposure in considering all the components of a

patient’s current condition in this setting including but

not limited to:

•

Episodes of acute illness or disability, co-

morbidities

•

Medications, labs, imaging, and medical

screening

•

Line management, insurance reimbursement

issues/ case management, short-term stay

•

Self-care, promote health and prevent loss of

function

•

Address any preexisting or long term illness

•

Ambulatory or non-ambulatory patients with

injuries/disabilities that reside at a facility

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 34

Outpatient Criteria

Doctoral level students need to gain experience/

exposure in considering all the components of a

patient’s current condition in this setting including but

not limited to:

•

Conditions that may no longer be in the acute

phase

•

Ambulatory patients with injuries who live at

home, but are able to be community dwellers

with or without assist

•

Preventative care that fosters early detection of

disease and morbidity, and focuses on keeping

patients well in addition to helping them while

they are sick.

•

Medical conditions that do not require hospital

admission and can be managed without

admission to the hospital

•

Insurance reimbursement issues/case

management

•

Self-care, promote health and prevent loss of

function

•

Address any preexisting or long-term illness

Assignment to Clinical Rotations

Requests for clinical slots will be made by the Director

of Clinical education (DCE) in March of each year.

Requests should be returned by May.

Physical Therapy Practice I

Students will be assigned to this clinical experience by

the DCE after receiving input from students and

faculty.

Some clinical facilities may have additional

requirements, such as drug testing, COVID-19 and

Annual Influenza vaccine, and 2 step TB testing or

background checks. It is the student’s responsibility to

fulfill these requirements and to pay any related costs.

This information is available on Exxat which is

accessible to students. However, this information

changes frequently. Thus, when cued to do so by the

DCE, the student will contact the assigned clinical site

to confirm the clinical sites additional requirements.

The student will notify the DCE if additional

requirements are needed and the DCE will direct the

student on where to send the results. Please see the

Background Check Release form in the appendices.

Students need to review the clinical site information

and Exxat to see if any such additional requirements

exist for the site within two weeks of receiving the

placement letter and if so, the student may request to

not be placed at the site. In addition, a criminal

background check and/or drug screen may be required

for practicing as a Physical Therapist. Many state

licensing agencies require a negative criminal

background before granting a license to practice.

Students should be aware of the possible need for a

criminal background check and/or drug screen and

should be prepared to absorb the costs.

Physical Therapy Practice II – IV

A master list of facilities available for the upcoming

year will be compiled and made available to the

students by the end of July. Students will make their

preliminary choices of setting and/or clinical site and

then meet with the DCE . The DCE and student will

discuss the student’s choices. The DCE will take the

student’s choices into consideration when completing

the assignment process. After consulting with the

faculty, students will be provided with placement

confirmations letters.

Students cannot perform rotations at a facility or

within a health care system where:

•

They previously volunteered or worked (in the

Physical Therapy Department or Rehabilitation Area)

•

They have a relative working (in the Physical Therapy

Department or Rehabilitation Area).

•

They or a relative have ownership

•

They will be supervised by a person or persons with

whom they have previously volunteered or worked

•

They have accepted a post-graduation position.

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 35

Upon assignment of students to the clinical practice

experience, the facilities will be sent the name(s) of

the student(s) assigned to them. This will take place by

October 31. Sites will be asked to confirm placement

of the student.

Removing a student from an assigned clinical site:

Clinical site assignments are considered permanent

unless the site cancels the placement. Removal of a

student from a clinical site for any other reason is very

rarely done and is at the sole discretion of the Director

of Clinical Education.

It is the student’s responsibility to contact the facility

to find out about clinic hours, location, directions,

parking, dress code, etc. It is also solely the student’s

responsibility to arrange for transportation, room and/

or board for each clinical assignment. The University,

faculty and Clinical Sites have no responsibility for

providing transportation, room and/or board for

clinical assignments.

The DCE will communicate with the site and student

at least once during each clinical experience. This

communication can be via phone call, site visit,

videoconference, or email.

Additional Information on Clinical

Rotations

Immunizations

Students are required to complete immunizations as

outlined on the DPT immunization form, including

an annual flu vaccination, and receive an “Approved”

status through Exxat. It is the student’s responsibility

to ensure approval through Exxat. Failure to do so

may delay the start of clinical experiences.

Immunizations are required to be completed

prior to commencing clinical rotation or

observation experiences. Clinical sites may

require an up-to-date two-step TB, COVID-19

vaccine, or other requirements (i.e. drug screen)

within a certain timeframe of starting the

experience. The student must be prepared to

perform and pay for this, as requested. The

University of Cincinnati does recognize that

students who are on campus may exempt from

immunizations for religious reasons. Students

must complete an exemption form and submit it

to the DCE. The University of Cincinnati’s

recognition of exemption of immunizations on

religious grounds while a student is on campus

does not carry over into the clinical setting. It is

not guaranteed that clinical sites will exempt a

student from immunizations for religious grounds,

in particular large hospital systems. For

employment at many healthcare facilities, there is

no religious exemptions for immunizations

including but not limited to MMR, flu, COVID-

19, and varicella.

A student who files a religious exemption for

immunizations may:

1. Complete the immunizations and

progress through the program in both

academic and clinical courses.

2. Decline immunizations and participate in

academic courses only. This option will

disqualify the student from participating in

clinical courses.

As such, this will make the student ineligible to

complete the full curriculum for graduation and sit

for the NPTE.

Site Selection

All clinic facilities participating in our clinical education

program must have a contract with the University of

Cincinnati before a student can perform a clinical

rotation in that facility.

Students must be prepared and may be expected

to complete at least one clinical experience

outside of the Greater Cincinnati area. Outside of

the Greater Cincinnati area is defined as 100-mile

driving distance from the Health Sciences Building

(3225 Eden Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267). The

student’s “out of town rotation” budget needs to

include: paying tuition, travel, lodging, food, etc.

The costs can vary widely depending on the

location of the rotation and what living

arrangements can be made.

If a student requests a clinical placement in an area

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 36

where the program does not have an established

site, the DCE will investigate a maximum of three

possible new sites depending on the current needs

of the clinical education curriculum with

consideration for the amount of time that is

available before the proposed clinical rotation is

scheduled to begin.

Students must complete their clinical experiences in

all four practice patterns – musculoskeletal,

neuromuscular, integumentary, and

cardiopulmonary. Additionally, they must experience

patient populations across the adult lifespan in both

inpatient and outpatient settings.

Since participation in clinical education by the

clinical facility is completely voluntary, assignment to

a facility is subject to change until the first day of the

rotation. Occasionally, clinic facilities may have to

cancel a student’s rotation. The DCE will then try

to place the student in a similar setting. However, if

this is not possible; the student will then have to be

reassigned to an available facility. The DCE will

make every attempt to place students in clinical

rotations. However, the PT program cannot

guarantee clinical rotation placements.

Should a conflict arise during the student’s

performance in the clinical setting, use the following

steps for resolution:

1. The student and the Clinical Instructor

(CI) should try to resolve the conflict.

2. If the conflict is unable to be resolved,

the Clinical Instructor should approach

the site’s Clinical Coordinator for Clinical

Education

(SCCE) for intervention.

3. The SCCE should serve as an objective third

party in his/her observation of the student/

CI relationship and make recommendations

for possible positive solutions to the

situation.

4. If the conflict is judged by the Clinical

Instructor and/or the SCCE to be a more

serious matter, the CI and/or SCCE should

contact the PT program immediately and

apprise the Director of Clinical Education

(DCE) of the situation. The DCE will then

take action based on the information

provided.

5. At any point in the process, the student,

CI or SCCE may contact the DCE to

assist with strategies to help facilitate a

successful resolution.

6. When a problem situation arises, whether it

is due to a conflict in professional

behaviors or decreased performance

expectations, the most likely sequence of

events will be as follows:

7. The DCE will talk to the student and the CI

separately to get each individual’s account of

the

problem.

8. The DCE may schedule a time to come to

the clinic to discuss the situation further

with all parties involved.

9. The DCE will meet or speak individually with

the student, the CI and/or the SCCE, if

indicated, and make recommendations for

possible resolutions.

10. If indicated, the DCE will then meet with all

parties involved in a joint meeting to facilitate

the development and execution of an action

plan.

11. A written plan of action will be generated and

specific timelines for completion will be agreed

to by all parties involved (student, CI, SCCE,

DCE).

12. The DCE will remain involved for as long a

period as necessary and will go to the site as

necessary to ensure resolution of the

situation.

13. If the conflict cannot be resolved, or if the

student has violated the law or the APTA

Code of Ethics, the student will be removed

from the clinic immediately and dealt with in

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 37

accordance with program policy.

14. If the conflict is judged by the DCE to be a

personality or professional behavior issue and if

intervention has not been successful, the

student

will be removed from the clinical

setting. If the student can successfully

remediate, they will likely be reassigned to

another clinical site.

15. Students who have been removed from the

clinic, for knowledge or skill deficits, will be

required to formulate and carry out a

remediation plan in collaboration with the

DCE. The plan may call for the student to

participate in a variety of activities such as

reading the literature, working with the

program faculty on case studies, practicing

techniques, etc.

Expectations for Students

Clinical Education Seminar for the

Class of 2024 and Class of Spring

2025

During the spring semester of the first year, students

are required to attend four classes facilitated by the

DCE. During these classes, students will be further

oriented to Exxat, the mechanics of the PTP

courses, further verification of required

immunizations and paperwork, writing of letters to

the clinical site, among other preparatory activities.

Failure to attend any of these scheduled classes may

result in a delayed start to the clinical rotation and/or

cancellation of the

clinical rotation. If a student

misses a required class due to extenuating

circumstances, the student must notify the DCE of

these circumstances within 24 hours of the scheduled

class. Scheduling medical or any other appointment

during a scheduled class time is not an acceptable

reason to miss class. Students who miss a required

class for any reason must schedule a time to meet

with the DCE to discuss the missed material.

During these classes, due dates for materials will be

set by the DCE. It is required of the student to make

sure the student adheres to the deadlines. Failure

attend class, notify the DCE of missing class due to

extenuating circumstances or failure to submit

required materials by the due date may result in any

of the following:

•

The student may be placed on a professional

behavior and /or remediation plan.

•

The start date of the clinical rotation may be

delayed.

•

The clinical rotation may be canceled.

All of the above may affect a student’s ability to

graduate or graduate in a timely manner.

Attendance for Full-time Clinical

Education Experience

General Student Policies

Students in the clinical education experience setting

must be able to fulfill the Essential Functions

Standards of a DPT Student as defined at Essential

Functions Form in order to participate in clinical

education. If the student does not meet these

requirements, the student must immediately notify

the DCE to determine eligibility to participate in the

clinical education experience and next steps. Students

who are ineligible to complete a clinical education

experience within the designated time frame will be

given an “Incomplete” for the associated course. A

plan to complete the course requirements will be

implemented with the student, DCE and/or

appropriate faculty member(s) during an agreed upon

timeframe to satisfy the “Incomplete” grade. The

plan may involve an alternative location to the

previously assigned clinical education site.

The student’s schedule during full time clinical

education experience’s follows that of the clinical

instructor(s)/clinical site. The student will continue

to follow the clinical instructor(s)/clinical site’s

schedule regardless of university/closure schedule.

The student’s schedule is determined by the clinical

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 38

site/clinical instructor(s) but must be the equivalent

of a full-time experience, or 35 hours per week.

Students must notify the DCE of any schedule or

location changes. Students must follow the schedule

of their clinical instructor(s) and be prepared to work

longer than scheduled work hours, weekends, and

holidays. Punctuality is required without

exception. The student is to be at the facility at

least ten minutes before they are expected and is

not to leave until excused by their clinical

supervisor.

If a student’s clinical instructor is absent, a

designated alternative clinical instructor as named by

the clinical site will supervise the student until the

primary clinical instructor returns to duty. The

student will follow the schedule of the alternate

clinical instructor.

Beginning and end dates for clinical education

experiences are established by the program and are

provided to the students in advance. The week

immediately following each rotation should be left

available in case of remediation or need for make-up

days during the clinical education experience.

Furthermore, the clinical site may require onboarding

activities immediately prior to the start date of the

clinical rotation. The student should be available as

requested by the clinical site for these activities.

Absence, Tardiness, or Early

Departure Policy

It is the belief of the University of Cincinnati

Physical Therapy program that clinical attendance

is a critical aspect of professional behavior. A

physical therapist must be present for meetings,

conferences, consultations, and patient care to

fulfill their professional responsibilities. Lateness,

absences, and student-initiated schedule changes

are only acceptable in the event of an emergency

and with notification.

The program informs students those violations

of the attendance policies may result in:

•

Removal of the student from the clinic,

•

Additional scheduled time in the clinic,

•

A delay in return to the clinic,

•

No opportunity to make up missed time,

•

Placement in an additional clinical experience,

•

Failure in the clinical experience, and/or

•

Termination in the program.

The program emphasizes to clinical instructors the

need to reflect any violations of these attendance

policies on the clinical performance evaluation

sheets. The program requires that acceptable and

appropriate attendance be

exhibited prior to

completion of the program.

Unexcused absences and tardiness. Unexcused

absences are not acceptable. The student is expected

to be in the clinic when assigned.

Absences and tardiness are considered unexcused

when:

•

They are for non-emergent reasons.

•

They are not approved by the site and/or the

DCE.

•

The DCE and site are not informed of the

absence or early departure prior to the event.

•

The DCE and site are not informed of the

tardiness within 24 hours of the event.

Planned Absences

Students are not permitted planned absences during

clinical education experiences. However, the program

understands that there are certain events such as

professional (conference attendance, residency

interviews, or job interviews), religious, or life events

that may occur during clinical education experiences

that may affect attendance. Students can complete an

Absence Appeal Form and email the form to the

DCE. Only after the student has received approval

from the school may the student reach out to the

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 39

clinical instructor/site coordinator of clinical

education for approval. Once approval is granted

through the school and the clinical site, the student

must put in a leave request in Exxat and detail how

the time will be made up during the clinical education

experience based on feedback from the clinical site.

Unexpected Absences

During clinical education experiences, unexpected or

unplanned absences may occur secondary to

illness/injury, transportation issues, family emergency,

death in family, or inclement weather. The student

should first immediately contact the clinical instructor

via their preferred method of communication. Then,

the student should immediately communication to the

DCE via Team Chat, Teams Voicemail, or University

Email detailing the reason for the absence. A plan will

be developed in conjunction with the clinical site in

regards to making up the missed clinical time. If the

facility is unable or unwilling to schedule for this, the

DCE may assign additional projects to be completed

by the student.

Grading

If a student does not miss any clinical time or is

given permission by the clinical instructor to make

up excused absences/tardiness/early departures in

the most appropriate manner, the student will

receive 100% in the category. Detriments to grades

for unexcused or excessive absences are fully

outlined in each syllabus for each clinical

experience.

Written Authorization

Due to illness, injury or accident, students who are

out of the clinic for greater than two days will be

required to get a health care profession’s note

stating they are medically fit to return to the

clinical education experience. If a student has been

in an accident, they must supply written evidence

of the accident. The authorization must be

submitted to the DCE and the student’s clinical

site upon his/her return. Failure to adhere to this

policy will be considered a violation of the policy.

Clinical Experience Dress Code

All students must adhere to a uniform dress code

when attending clinical rotations. Unacceptable

dress or appearance could lead to course

remediation with potential course failure. Good

personal hygiene must be practiced as part of

conforming to the dress code. Students should

contact the facility where they will be performing

their clinical rotation to inquire about their dress

code and should adhere by that dress code. If the

facility does not have a dress code, students should

wear the PT program uniform:

•

Students will wear khaki, navy or dark pants, a

button-down shirt, polo or appropriate top.

•

Shoes must have no more than a one-inch heel, be

closed toed and heeled, and made of leather or

vinyl. Tie-up shoes must be tied.

•

A program nametag must be worn at all times.

•

Hair that reaches the collar or lower must be tied

back.

•

No jewelry other than watches, small earrings, and

wedding bands.

•

No colognes, perfumes or heavily scented hair

products.

•

No hats

•

Clothing must always be neat and clean. Even if

permitted by the clinical site:

•

Students must NEVER wear: midriff tops, tops

which expose the midriff when the arms are raised,

see-through tops (even with another top

underneath), pants whose hems drag the floor, ill-

fitting pants, tank tops, sleeveless tops, shirts with

logos or sayings (exception: shirts which bear the

logo of the clinical site or the UC logo if they are

acceptable to the site).

•

Armpits must be covered at all times when working

with patients.

•

False fingernails are not permitted.

•

No fingernails visible above the fingertip.

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 40

•

No front or back cleavage is permitted.

•

No visible tattoos.

•

No body piercings other than the earlobe. No

more than two earlobe piercings per ear are

permitted.

Additional Information

Health and Other Requirements

Clinic facilities require the students to have

completed

health testing and vaccines. Satisfactory proof of

these requirements must be received and confirmed

by University Health Services, and on Exxat, to the

faculty’s satisfaction

and prior to attending clinical

education.

Health Insurance – Student Health Insurance is

available for a fee and must be purchased if a student

is not covered by private health

insurance. Students

who purchase Student Health Insurance through the

University receive Needlestick insurance coverage as

part of the

basic policy. This will cover costs

associated with follow-up care following a

Bloodborne pathogen exposure. Students who do

not purchase Student Health Insurance will be

assessed a fee for a Needlestick Insurance Policy

which will appear on the student bill (as Bloodborne

Pathogen Insurance) the first semester of enrollment

of each year.

University Health Services – Students must complete

the health requirements of University Health

Services, including but not limited to testing,

vaccines, and consultation. Failure to complete

vaccination series and/ or submit required

documentation by the stated deadline will result in

suspension from all program activities, including

classes and clinical rotations. Some clinical facilities

may have additional requirements, such as drug

testing, additional screening or vaccinations, or

criminal background checks. It is the student’s

responsibility to fulfill these requirements and to pay

any related costs. The DCE will direct the student

on to where to send the results of such testing.

According to the contract between the University and

the clinical site, the clinical site will provide

emergency care to students for any accident, injury,

or illness. The student’s health insurance shall be

billed for any services,

and the balance billed to the

student. Responsibility for follow up care remains the

responsibility of the student.

Students are required to hand carry their medical

documentation with them to the clinic on the first day

they are required to report or have access to their

documentation via Exxat, if required by the clinic.

The student is to confirm this requirement when

contacting the SCCE or CI prior to the first day of

the clinical rotation.

Finances

Students are responsible for all finances involved

in clinical education, including, but not limited

to, transportation, room and board.

Schedule

Students are expected to be in the clinic for at least

forty hours per week. However, hours may vary

from one site to another. Students should prepare

to be available 7 am to 8 pm, seven days per week.

Students will follow the schedule of their clinical

instructor, not that of the

University.

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 41

Learning Expectations

The student is expected to learn, respect, and

observe all the rules and regulations of the facility

in which the student is working. They are also

expected to respect the confidentiality of the staff

and patients.

The clinical site also has obligations to the students –

to provide a safe, supportive atmosphere conducive

to learning and growth and to provide a clinical

supervisor to whom the student will have a close,

working relationship. If the facility does not appear

to be meeting its obligations, the student should

immediately inform the DCE.

Students are not to share any information from a

clinical site such as patient care protocols, etc. unless

a Clinical Education Release of Information form

has been completed by a person in authority at the

clinical site and the completed form submitted to the

DCE.

The Clinical Education Release of Information

form is located in the Appendices.

Students are to identify themselves as a “student

physical therapist” and are to obtain the patient’s

consent prior to initiating therapy. Students are to

respect the right of the patient to refuse treatment by

the student. In this case, the student is instructed to

immediately report the patient’s refusal to their

clinical instructor.

Site Visits

The DCE will make every attempt to contact the

student and their clinical instructor at least once

during a rotation. This contact can be made by

phone, video conference, email, or in person.

The DCE will make every attempt to visit a student

at least one time over the course of their four

clinical rotations or three clinical rotations for the

incoming cohort..

Termination from Clinical Education

•

A student will be removed from their clinical education

experience and receive a failing grade for that

experience if they:

•

Are found to be under the influence of an intoxicating

substance.

•

Have been proven to have committed felonious

behavior.

•

Exhibit slanderous or libelous behavior.

Student-Needlestick or Body Fluid

Exposure

After a needlestick or body fluid exposure,

students should proceed with the following

steps:

1. If indicated, HIV prophylaxis needs to be started

within 2 hours.

2. Cleanse wound with soap and water and irrigate

area with saline. For eyes, irrigate with water,

saline, or sterile irritants.

3. Arrange for source patient blood tests to be

ordered by the provider responsible for the

source

patient’s care (see below) Receive care from your

medical provider or the nearest Emergency

Department that accepts your insurance.

2nd Year DPT

Students at Pinning

Ceremony

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 42

If you have UC Student Health Insurance,

please go to the University Health Services:

University Health Services, Holmes Building, 1st

floor, room 1007 Phone: (513) 584-4457

On nights, weekends, and University holidays

Go to the nearest Emergency Department or the

University Hospital Emergency Department. If you

need advice call (513) 584-STIX. Follow up with

University Health Services at (513) 584-4457 the

next workday.

If you are away from Cincinnati:

Go to the hospital emergency room where you can

get immediate care. If you need advice, call

University Health Services (513) 584-4457, or the

University

Hospital operator (513) 584-7777 or (513) 584-

PAGE, and page the University Health Services

physician on call. Report your exposure to University

Health Services at (513) 584-STIX or (513) 584-4457.

Note: If you do not have UC Student Health Insurance,

contact your insurance company for instructions or go to the

nearest

Emergency Department that takes your insurance. You

may receive care at University Health Services. You will be

billed for your care.

Lab Work Required for Exposure Source

•

Rapid HIV antigen test (OCCEXP or

other) (written informed consent

required)

•

HBsAg, HBclgM, HCVab

•

Hepatic profile

•

Collect 3 serum separator tubes and label with

source name, medical record number, date, and

time collected.

•

At University Hospital UC students and

employees should request an orange packet

from Immediate Response lab (IRL) by calling

(513) 584-3700.

Lab Work for Exposed Individual

•

HIV antibody (HIVR)

•

NDSTKII (includes HBsAg, HBsAb,

HBcAb, SGPT, SGOT )

•

HCVab

Note: Call University Health Services at (513) 584-

4457 or have the University Hospital Operator at (513)

584-7777

or (513) 584-PAGE page the UHS

provider on call for any questions regarding appropriate

medical care. You will need to

follow the protocol of the site at which you are rotating

regarding documentation, obtaining source blood, etc.

Required Documentation for Clinical

Assignments

It is the student’s responsibility to submit required

documentation by the stated deadline to the

department or other appropriate parties. (Please see

Additional Requirements). Failure to do so may result

in termination from the program or the cancellation

of a clinical assignment which may result in a delay in

progression through the program. In the rare instance

that an original, submitted document has been lost or

misplaced, the student is responsible for submitting a

copy of the original form. Therefore, students are

required to make a copy of the documentation prior

to submitting it. It is the student’s responsibility to

maintain these copies on file until completion of the

program.

Guidelines for Selection of Clinical

Instructors

Clinical Instructors who are selected to supervise the

PT Program’s students should:

•

Be a Physical Therapist with at least one-year

experience with current licensure within their

state/ country of practice.

•

Be current in and follow clinical competence

guidelines, professional policies and

procedures, code of ethics, and jurisdictional

laws and regulations.

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 43

•

APTA Clinical Instructor Credentialing is

preferred but not required.

•

APTA membership is preferred but not

required.

•

Demonstrate a desire to work with students.

•

Be able to meet student(s) needs in terms of

personality, enthusiasm, and communication.

In addition, the clinical instructor should be familiar

with the PT Clinical Performance Instrument (CPI)

Web before the student is scheduled to begin. The

training for the PT CPI Web 3.0 takes approximately

45 minutes. The DCE will provide the information

needed to get this completed prior to the student’s

rotation.

Upon request, the DCE/ADCE is available to provide

an in-service for all clinical faculty or for individuals on

the use of the PT CPI Web 3.0.

Role of the Site Coordinator of Clinical

Education (SCCE)*

1. Orient the student to the facility, the

department, and the staff.

2. Instruct the student in departmental

procedures.

3. Ensure that the student is supervised by a

specific physical therapist and that the therapist

is supportive of the student’s needs, both

clinically and personally.

4. Ensure that the student participates in

departmental activities.

5. Ensure that the student is always assigned an

appropriate number of patients to completely

carry out treatments for and to document.

6. Allow the student to present an in-service

program or complete an administrative project.

7. See that the student’s performance is evaluated

and that evaluations are carried on in private

with opportunity for discussion to determine

the student’s strengths and weaknesses. The

student will be responsible for his/her

evaluation forms, the SCCE/CI will not need

to return them to the PT Program.

8. Act as a resource to clinical instructors on the

use of the Clinical Performance Instrument

*Some of these duties might be shared with the CI, depending on

clinical site.

Additional Requirements

University of Cincinnati PT Student Handbook 44

Additional Requirements

Requirement

Provider

Deadline for Completion

APTA Membership

Along with being in-depth resource for our

profession, membership provides access to

the Guide to PT Practice which will be

used throughout the

program.

APTA

Beginning of summer semester of the first year of

the program and renewed annually. This is an

additional fee

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

(CPR Adult, including one person and two

person CPR and pediatric (infant and child)

Certified agency (American Heart Associa-

tion, Red Cross) - for specific information

on courses, refer to the paragraph on CPR

certification under Student Expenses. On-

line courses are not acceptable.

Proof of CPR certification must be uploaded into

Exxat by the end of the fall semester for all years

in the program.

Bloodborne Pathogens Training

Compliance Training or Competency

Testing, Blood Borne Pathogens Training

End of summer semester of the first year of the

program and renewed annually

HIPAA Training

Compliance Training or Competency

Testing, HIPAA Privacy Introduction

End of the summer semester of the first year

and renewed annually

Consent Forms

• Clinical Assignment Agreement

• Laboratory Consent

• Essential Functions Agreement

• Activity, Travel, & Video Release

• Acknowledgement of Clinical

Education and Vaccine Form

Program

In year 1, forms are to be completed and submitted

on the first day of class. Updates must be uploaded

in years 2 and 3 as a part of a class.

Professional Behaviors

Self-Assessment

Program

As outlined in Professional Behaviors

Research Training - Human Subjects

UC Website- CITI

By the end of the fall semester of the first year and

renewed annually

Yearly Physical Examination, Hep B

series plus proof of positive titer, TB

testing & Vaccinations (Measles,

Mumps, Rubella (MMR),

Meningococcal Quadrivalent,

Tetanus,Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis

(Tdap), Varicella (chickenpox), and

COVID19), Annual Influenza

University Health Services or General

Practitioner

Upon entering the program and beginning of

the fall semester each year. Students are advised

that the University Health Services charges a fee

to maintain health records as required by the

program. Documentation submitted and verified

through SalesForce.

Health Insurance and Needlestick

(Bloodborne pathogens) insurance

University Health Services

Upon entering the program and must be main-

tained throughout the length of the program;

additional fee unless the student is covered by

the University Health Insurance

Immunization and Physical Exam Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 45

Appendix A

Essential Program-Related Functions

Physical therapy students must demonstrate the

ability to perform at least the functions listed below

safely, reliably, and efficiently, in compliance with

legal and ethical standards throughout their entire

physical therapy education.

1. Tolerate attending class for approximately 25

hours per week and have the ability to sit and/or

stand and maintain upright posture for several

hours at a time.

2. Have the intellectual skills to recall and

comprehend large amounts of didactic

information under time constraints and apply

this information to the practice of physical

therapy.

3. Utilize appropriate verbal, nonverbal, and

written communication with patients,

families, and others.

4. Select, perform and document appropriate

physical therapy procedures used to assess the

function of the movement system. These include,

but are not limited to, the assessment of

cognitive/mental status, vital signs, wound status,

endurance, segmental length, girth and volume,

sensation, strength, tone, reflexes, movement

patterns, coordination, ROM, balance,

developmental stage, soft tissue, joint

motion/play, pain, cranial and peripheral nerve

function, posture, gait, functional abilities, assistive

device

fit/use, and the pulmonary system.

5. Determine the physical therapy needs of any

patient with perceived or potential movement

dysfunction.

6. Develop and document a plan of care for a

patient with movement dysfunction.

7. Recognize the psychosocial impact of

dysfunction and disability and integrate the needs

of the patient and family when implementing the

plan of care.

8. Perform intervention procedures in a manner

that is appropriate to the patient’s status and

desired goals. These include, but are not limited

to, exercise, developmental activities, balance

training, coordination training, positioning

techniques, patient transfer, self-care activities

and CPR.

9. Possess the ability to manage a full patient load

and the ability to recognize and appropriately

respond to emergency situations.

10. Demonstrate ability to apply universal precautions.

11. Participate in the process of scientific inquiry.

12. Apply teaching/learning theories and methods

in health care and community environments

with the goal of health care promotion and

prevention.

13. Demonstrate management skills, including

planning, organizing, supervising,

delegating and working as a member of a

multidisciplinary team.

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 46

14. Develop responsibility for lifelong professional

growth and development.

15. The above require that students have no

restrictions in the

following: bending, carrying,

climbing, grasping, heaving, lifting, pulling,

pushing, reaching, sitting, crawling, sight,

hearing, speaking, stooping, kneeling, use of

hands,

walking, and writing. In addition,

students are required to pass an annual physical

exam.

Certain disabilities can interfere with a student’s

ability to complete the program of study and

acquire the essential functions necessary for the

practice of physical therapy. A student who feels

they have such a disability is required to register

with the Accessibilty Resources, 556-6823.

Reasonable accommodations can be made to

compensate for some, but not all, limitations.

Students should be aware that those that interfere

with patient care, safety or require the use of an

intermediary may be incompatible with

independent professional practice.

A student who

is unable to fulfill the essential functions may be

dismissed from the program.

Students will be required to sign a form stating

they are able to fulfill the essential functions on a

yearly basis. Students must also pass a yearly

physical exam. Specific information on the

physical exam can be found at:

Physical Form (Page 3 of 3)

2 Physical Therapy, p.37-45, Volume 77, Issue 1, January, 1997

3 Essential Functions, Physical Therapy Program, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 47

Appendix B

Essential Function Program Release Form

Physical therapy students must demonstrate the ability to perform at least the functions listed below

safely, reliably,

and efficiently, in compliance with legal and ethical standards throughout their entire

physical therapy education.

Physical Therapy, p.37-45, Volume 77, Issue 1, January, 1997

Therefore, I affirm that this student, ___________________________________________________, is able to:

Student Name

Tolerate attending class for approximately 25 hours per week, and have the ability to sit and/or

stand and

maintain upright posture for several hours at a time.

Have the intellectual skills to recall and comprehend large amounts of didactic information

under time

constraints and apply this information to the practice of physical therapy.

Utilize appropriate verbal, nonverbal, and written communication with patients, families, and

others.

Perform intervention procedures in a manner that is appropriate to the patient’s status and

desired goals.

These include, but are not limited to, exercise, developmental activities, balance

training, coordination

training, positioning techniques, patient transfer, self-care activities and

CPR. Examples of the level of

physical ability needed:

•

Able to assist with up to 80% of the work of moving an average-sized adult from one

surface to

another, including from the floor to a chair or bed)

•

Able to provide sufficient physical assistance to adults with neuromusculoskeletal

problems

to prevent falls during gait training/locomotor training.

Demonstrate ability to apply universal precautions.

The above require that students have no restrictions in the following: bending, carrying,

climbing,

grasping, heaving, lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, sitting, crawling, sight, hearing,

speaking, stooping,

kneeling, use of hands, walking, and writing. In addition, students are

required to pass an annual physical

exam.

By signing this document, I affirm that this student is able to perform the above activities and able

to return to

class and/or clinic.

Healthcare Provider Signature Date

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 48

Appendix C

Consent Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 49

Appendix D

Acknowledgement of Clinical Education and Vaccine Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 50

(Continued) Acknowledgement of Clinical Education and Vaccine Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 51

Appendix E

Vaccination Exemption Form

Student: You may exempt for religious reasons. Complete and sign this form. Your Religious Leader must

sign this form.

Upload the completed form to MedProctor.

Last Name First Middle

DOB (MM/DD/YYYY) University ID Number Semester Start (check one)

Fall

Spring

Summer

The above named student requests an exemption for the following vaccine(s) (check all that apply):

Hepatitis B

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Meningococcal Quadrivalent

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)

Varicella (chickenpox)

COVID Vaccine

The above named student understands that by submitting the University of Cincinnati Religious Exemption

form for one (1) or more vaccines required by the Vaccination Requirement, he/she exempts at his/her own

risk. The student releases the University of Cincinnati, its faculty, staff and students from any and all claims

connected with an outbreak of disease or other public health immunization emergency on campus.

Additionally, the student understands that he/she may be encouraged to leave campus until the situation has

been resolved.

Student Signature (or Legal Guardian)

Print Name Date Signed (MM/DD/YYY)

Email of Student or Legal Guardian

TO BE COMPLETED BY RELIGIOUS LEADER:

Name of Leader

Name of Religious Institution

Address

City, State, Zip_

Phone

Religious Leader Signature_ Date_

Exemption Religious 2017-05-02

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 52

Appendix F

Incomplete Grade Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 53

(Continued) Incomplete Grade Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 54

Appendix G

Date incident occurred: ________________________________________________________________

Date report filed: ________________________________________________________________

Location of incident: ________________________________________________________________

Names of individuals involved in the incident: __________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

Names of individuals who witnessed the incident: ______________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

Please describe the incident including as many details as possible: __________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

Did the individuals involved in the incident require medical care? If so, where was the care provided and by

whom? _______________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

Please submit this form to the PT Program Director within 24 hours of the incident

or on the next business day if the incident occurs on a weekend or holiday.

Student Incident Report

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 55

Appendix H

Absence Appeal Form

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 56

Appendix I

Student Professional Behavior Assessment

To view this document in its entirety,

please click the link below:

Student Professional Behaviors

Assessment

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 57

Appendix J

COVID-19 and Clinical Education

Requirements for participation in clinical education experiences during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The

following requirements are in addition to the program’s usual clinical education requirements and any

additional requirements/onboarding assigned by your clinic site:

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at University of Cincinnati recognizes the unique and unprecedented

challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic faced by our clinical partners. We also recognize our responsibility to

continue to advance the training and education of the workforce of tomorrow. Although CAPTE has provided some

flexibility to clinical education expectations and duration, there is still a fundamental need to provide sufficient

opportunity for students to practice, apply and demonstrate competency of entry-level performance skills prior to

graduation.

In an effort to preserve clinical education learning opportunities for our students, the program has identified the

following actions and student expectations to support our clinical partners. The program also recognizes the critical

need for flexibility for start dates and duration of clinical experiences based on the unique circumstances of each

clinical site while at the same time keeping accreditation standards top of mind.

Finally, we know that guidelines may change as we continue to navigate the impact of the pandemic. We will remain in

communication throughout the clinical experiences and encourage you to contact the Director of Clinical Education

(DCE) and/or the Program Director (PD) if you have any thoughts, questions, concerns, or suggestions. We are in

this together to continue to grow our profession and maintain high academic and professional standards.

COVID-19 SPECIFIC TRAINING

• PPE review and practice:

o UC Health COVID Training

o Bloodborne Pathogens online training

▪ Review CDC resources related to PPE

• Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Optimizing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Supplies

• COVID-19 Training – students will be required to complete the following free, online modules from the

APTA Learning Center. Once you have completed all modules, submit a copy of the certificates of completion

for all modules at one time to your Exxat profile under “Required Documents.”

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 58

o Covid-19: Clinical Best Practices in Physical Therapy Management

o Overview of Prone Positioning: Why it Works and Lessons Learned

o Students may be participating in services delivered via telehealth and are highly encouraged to complete

courses housed within the APTA Learning Center “Telehealth Catalog of Courses”

o Complete at least one module most relevant to the practice setting you are going to for your clinical

education experience. Prior to each rotation, you must select a new course to complete and upload the

certification to: “COVID Training” in Exxat under the “Required Documents” section. Below are a

few examples and not an exhaustive list. It is your duty as a professional to select the most relevant

topic(s) to your clinical setting.

▪ PACER series: Geriatric Considerations ii. PACER series: Home Health Considerations

▪ PACER series: Pediatric Considerations

▪ PACER series: Pelvic Health Considerations

▪ Physical Therapy Considerations for Inpatient Rehab with COVID-19

▪ Physical Therapy Considerations of COVID-19 in the Post-Acute Setting

▪ Acute Care Physical Therapy and COVID-19: How Can We Add the Greatest Value (2 part

series)

▪ PACER series: Outpatient PT for COVID-19 Part 1 and Part 2

▪ PACER series: Vital signs

▪ Others as appropriate—more topics are consistently added to the Learning Center

SELF-REPORTING ILLNESS

• Students will be expected to IMMEDIATELY self-report signs or symptoms of illness. Student should notify

the program Director of Clinical Education (DCE), the Clinical Instructor, and the site Employee Health (or

Rehab Supervisor if appropriate) or other site personnel as deemed appropriate by the clinical site. The

students are to follow the clinical site policy and procedures related to reporting illness.

• Per CDC guidelines (as of 2/22/21), COVID-19 symptoms to be monitored and reported include:

o Cough

o Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

o Fever

o Chills

o Repeated shaking with chills

o Muscle pain

o Headache

o Sore throat

o New loss of smell

• Exposure: If student is informed that they were exposed to someone who tests positive to COVID-19 at any

time during the clinical experience, either in or out of the facility, the student will immediately contact DCE,

clinical instructor, and the SCCE.

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 59

• Testing considerations: If a student requires testing to be “cleared” to begin a clinical experience or because

they present with symptoms, they will first seek options through their primary care provider, city- or state-

sponsored testing, or university testing

• Insurance: While on clinical rotations, students maintain personal health insurance and the school maintains

professional liability insurance. At this time, there is no indication for a change in this original policy.

MENTAL HEALTH

Considerations in today’s healthcare environment – the COVID-19 pandemic has created significant burden and stress

in the current healthcare environment. Students must recognize how this impacts their own stress and be prepared to

manage it. They also must understand the professional behavior expectations and possible restrictions that may be

placed on them during and outside clinical work hours. To prepare students for coping with the added stress and

heightened professional behavior expectations, students must:

• Review the following resources:

o CDC: Coping & COVID-19

o American Psychiatric Association Coronavirus & Mental Health: Taking Care of Ourselves

During Infectious Disease Outbreaks

o Understanding and Addressing Sources of Anxiety Among Health Care Professionals During

the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA

SOCIAL DISTANCING

• Students will be expected to social distance in facilities when appropriate and follow site-specific guidelines on

management of space and patient care

o Determine social distancing and quarantine requirements for locale of clinical site through review of

resources and discussion with your clinic site.

▪ Social Distancing Measures

▪ CDC Travel Information

• Students will also be expected to limit travel and high-exposure activities when not in the clinic to minimize

transmission risk. Please consult with the DCE as needed for further clarification. Your assigned clinical site

may require no travel outside the immediate area and/or recommend limited travel. Students MUST abide by

these polices.

• If there is a family emergency, the student is to discuss travel arrangements first with the DCE and then with

the clinical site.

• Review information on CDC website to ensure understanding of the implications on one’s own health and

living situation as well as the importance of disclosing necessary travel, health issues, exposures and symptoms

if they develop.

o CDC Information for Healthcare Professionals

o CDC: COVID-19 Information for Specific Groups of People

o CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus

o CDC: Testing for COVID-19

Appendices

University of Cincinnati DPT Student Handbook 60

SITE-SPECIFIC DETERMINATIONS

• Students will follow site-specific guidance on what specific PPE should be worn when engaged in patient care

and during time in the clinic.

• Students are NOT fit-tested for N-95 masks by the university. Therefore, clinical sites will determine if and

when a student will be fit tested for a N-95 mask.

• Students will be compliant with temperature checks upon clinical site entry if indicated.

• The student may be asked to keep a list of patients treated if contact tracing is later needed.

• If traveling from out-of-state for a clinical experience, the student will seek guidance by the site coordinator if

they are expected to self-quarantine for a period of time (typically 14-days) prior to starting clinical experience.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

• Student are expected to demonstrate Professional Behaviors as defined by the APTA at all times. However,

when dealing with challenges caused by the current pandemic, it is particularly important to recognize the need

for the following student behaviors:

o Flexibility- Plans made for clinical experiences may change abruptly and without warning. Likewise,

policies and requirements for our clinical partners are continuously evolving based on new information

and data. We must be flexible and adaptable to these changes.

o Respect- Our clinical partners are facing unique and unprecedented challenges, and we must be

respectful and aware of those challenges.

o Open-mind- Students are expected to be open and adaptable to alternative learning experiences (which

may include multiple clinical instructors, multiple students, simulations, etc.)

o Problem solvers- Students are encouraged to actively engage in how our profession addresses and

identifies solutions to new problems.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• The American Council of Academic Physical Therapy

• PT Program Faculty: meet with the DCE (or designated faculty member as assigned by DCE) to review

expectations and discuss any concerns or issues you may have. Students will have the opportunity to opt out of

completing their clinical education experience at this time if they have concerns. Students will complete the

following acknowledgement form to communicate their preference about proceeding with their clinical

education experience at this time.

Department of Rehabilitation, Exercise, & Nutrition Sciences

PO Box 670394

Cincinnati, OH 45267

45267