Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

The Leader in Surgical Training

www . Meridian-Institute.Com

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

The Leader in Surgical Training

www . Meridian-Institute.Com

• Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting began operations in December of 1999 and is located at 1507 County Hospital Rd. Nashville TN 37218
• Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting is a proprietary post-secondary institution owned by:

Dennis A. Stover, CST, CSA

Michael W. Foster, CSA

ADMINISTRATION AND FACULTY:

President/Program Director - Dennis A. Stover, CST, CSA

Vice President/Director of Student Affairs - Larry E. Stover

Registrar - Kitty M. Creel

Dean of Academics Affairs - Roy G. Zacharias, Jr. CST, BS

Clinical Director - Gregory P. Salmon, CST/CFA, CSA

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assistings SFA ONLINE PROGRAM is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Accreditation for Surgical Assisting (SASA) of The Accreditation Review Committee for Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARCST/SA).

Contact Information: CAAHEP (www.caahep.org) - 727-210-2350

ARCSTSA (www.arcst.org) - 303-694-9262

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, (ABHES), a national accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.

Contact Information: ABHES (www.abhes.org) 703- 917-9503

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission this authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility. Meridian Institute of Surgical Assistings SFA ONLINE PROGRAM awards 32 semester credit hours leading to a certificate of completion. Meridians staff and faculty are authorized by THEC in their respective positions.

Contact Information: THEC (www.state.tn.us/thec) - 615-532-7495

Catalog Date: August, 2011

Catalog Index

Prospective Student Letter Pages 1- 2

Mission Statement Page 2

ADA Statement Page 2

Facility Description Page 3

Hours of Operation Page 3

Academic Calendar Page 3

Credential Offered at Completion Page 3

Clock Hours and Credits Awarded Page 3

Program Overview Page 4

Entrance Requirements Page 4

Phase One Overview Pages 5- 7

Phase Two Overview (Applied Science Lab) Pages 8-17

Phase Three Overview Pages 18-21

Student Work Policy Page 22

Tuition Information Page 23

Tuition Refund Policy Page 24

Grading System and Credits Awarded Pages 25-26

Requirements for Graduation Page 26

Student Completion and Extension Policy Page 27

Admission Policy and Process Page 28

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy Pages 29-30

Grievance Policy Pages 31-36

Transferability of Credits Disclosure Page 37

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

The Leader in Surgical Training

www . Meridian-Institute.edu

Dear Prospective Student:

Thank You for your interest in Meridians SFA Online Program. This catalog will cover the details of the program as well as academic progression and student policies.

Meridianwas formed and began operations in December of 1999. Since then we have become the Nations leading provider of surgical assisting education and training. Our goal is to implement and conduct courses that set the industry standard.

The SFA Online Program is a CAAHEP-accredited program and was developed with the concept that the student must understand why he/she is performing a specific task, followed by the knowledge and ability how to complete the actual task. We call this our why-to-how philosophy. Our curriculum adheres to the Core Curriculum for Surgical Assisting, 2^nd Edition, published by The Association of Surgical Technologists. For several reasons, we firmly believe that Meridian has developed the GOLD STANDARD for surgical assisting training:

1. This course prepares the student in the academic stage utilizing an all-inclusive approach, enabling him/her to learn the particulars of each surgery. However, the course also takes the patient from the General Practitioner's office to the post-operative stage, allowing students to understand symptoms, causes, and various treatment methods, as well as why certain surgeries may or may not be recommended, then continuing into the actual treatment phase, followed by post-operative considerations. Also during the academic phase students will learn the fundamentals of assisting as well as legal, ethical, and business issues.

2. The hands-on portion of this course is our Applied Sciences Lab, which is conducted in Meridian's state-of-the-art lab facility and which sets us apart from any other surgical assisting training program. From our inception we realized that in order for our students to gain the experience necessary to move into the clinical externship phase they must have more experience than just working on pieces of rubber in a hotel room setting. In this lab students work with live tissue and deal with real bleeding, and perform surgeries in a real-life setting. There can be no compromise on REAL training. REAL training means REAL results.

3. Our commitment to customer service is a primary focus of Meridian. Every student receives individual attention and help from our staff and faculty.

As you begin your journey towards fulfilling your desire to become a first assistant we hope that you will place your trust in us the same way as students from all over the country have done to this point. We truly want to help you achieve your goals and dreams and firmly believe that you will findMeridians course to be of the highest standards available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me personally. It would be my pleasure to assist you and answer whatever questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Dennis A. Stover

Dennis A. Stover, CST CSA

President

OUR MISSION:

It is our sincere goal and desire to train and graduate the highest quality assistants in the country.Meridianachieves this goal by implementing only programs that are of the highest standards and adhere to published surgical assisting education guidelines. Meridian graduates are thoroughly trained in all surgical disciplines, thus providing the ability for comprehensive surgical interventions leading to the best care available for all patients.

**It is the ongoing policy of our institute to afford equal educational opportunities to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental handicap, veteran status or because they disabled veterans, and to conform to all applicable laws and regulations.

Facility:

The SFA ONLINE PROGRAM is conducted at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assistants facility in Nashville, Tennessee. The facility is comprised of approximately 12,000 square feet of administrative offices, classroom, and lab space. Meridians state of the art lab is equipped with four operating room stations fully furnished with all equipment and supplies to conduct real-time surgery comparable to operating rooms across the country.

Location:

Meridians facility is located at 1507 County Hospital Rd. Nashville, TN 37218

Hours of operation:

Meridian's hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 pm. Direct student support will be given during these hours. Email and online program issues are monitored during the evening and on the weekends. Meridian attempts to resolve all student issues within a 24-hour time period. The office will be closed for operations during all major holidays, as listed below.

• News Years Eve, New Years Day , Good Friday, Memorial Day, July Fourth, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the Friday after, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

Academic Calendar:

The SFA ONLINE PROGRAM is a self-paced program; therefore, there are no set enrollment dates. The student may enroll at anytime during the year.

Applied Science Lab dates are scheduled twice monthly, on the second and last weeks of every month, with the exception that there are no labs offered in December. The lab schedule is subject to change; therefore, each student must contact Meridian to verify lab availability.

Cohort Start Policy:

**All students will start the program on the first of the month following the month in which the student signs the enrollment agreement.**

Credential Offered at Completion:

Upon completion of the program each student will receive a Certificate of Completion.

Advanced placement and credit for experiential learning:

Because this is an advanced and unique program, Meridian does not accept transfer credits from other institutions, nor are credits given for experiential learning with the exception of students enrolled in a Masters degree program for Othopedic Physician Assistant.

Employment Assistance:

Upon completion of the program, Meridian cannot guarantee employment in the field of surgical assisting. However, we do work with various facilities across the nation and from time to time will be able to inform students of openings in the field. It is left up to each individual student to secure employment once he/she has completed the program.

Clock Hours and Credits Awarded:

Phase One: 285 hours, 19 semester credits

Phase Two: 60 hours, 3 semester credits

Phase Three: 607.50 hours, 10 semester credits

SFA ONLINE PROGRAM

Meridian is proud to introduce you to our CAAHEP-accredited SFA Online Program. Now students can stay at home and get the training they need to become a Certified First Assistant without being away from their families or missing time away from the workplace. Each student has 12 months to complete the entire course. Because this course is completed in a distance-education format, students are permitted to work at their own pace. The program consists of three phases, and upon finishing all three phases the student will graduate the program and receive a certificate of completion.

Phase 1:

The first phase consists of a 13-module online academic program. The 13 modules of study include all areas of anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, anesthesia, procedure fundamentals, legal aspects for the first assistant, and much more. This is a triple-tier password protected system. Testing, quizzing, and grading are completed online. Textbooks are provided for the first three modules, with the remaining text available for downloading online.

Phase 2:

The second phase of the course is completion of the Applied Sciences Lab. This phase is 60-hours of hands-on instruction covering all different surgical specialties. The lab may be completed at anytime, even if the student has not finished Phase One. However, since Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting is currently the largest CAAHEP-accredited program our labs fill up very quickly. Therefore, it is highly recommended that all new students enroll sooner rather than later so that they can secure an upcoming lab spot.

Phase 3:

The third phase of our course is completion of a clinical externship program. Each student must complete 135 cases (35 of which have to be in General Surgery with the remaining 100 in other specialties) with a sponsoring surgeon or a Meridian-approved certified assistant.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

* High school diploma or equivalent

*CPR certified

*Students must maintain individual malpractice insurance, the cost of which is in addition to the tuition and runs approximately $120.00.

*Surgical Technologist applicants should be a CST, or have completed a college-level Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology course.

*Nurses must hold a valid license for the state in which they are practicing, as well as have scrub experience.

* All Students must have O.R. scrub experience attained in the United States and a working knowledge of basic O.R. fundamentals or be enrolled in a Masters degree program for Orthopedic Physician Assistant

* All students must be employed at a healthcare facility or private office. In the case of OPA students they must evidence proof that they have access to clinical sites.

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

Official Course Syllabus

Course Title: Phase One Credits: 19

Course Number: SFA201 - SFA212 Course Clock Hour Length: 285

Prerequisites: None Revision Date: 1/02/2009

________________________________________________________________________

Text:

Mastery of Medicine Series: Surgery One, Surgery Two, Microbiology

Pharmacology Made Ridiculously Simple

Online module curriculum

Course Description:

MODULE I: SFA 201, 3 Credits Prerequisites: None
Title: SURGERY I and II

This module covers all surgical specialties, affording the student an opportunity to understand the process which brings patients into the operating room; i.e., symptoms, clinical features, and principles of treatment. Each chapter covers various treatment options and particular surgeries for a given situation. The module includes chapter quizzes, along with two module exams.

MODULE II: SFA 202, 3 Credits Prerequisites: SFA201
Title: PERIOPERATIVE MICROBIOLOGY

This Module consists of three main components: fundamental concepts in microbiology and infection, major clinical syndromes corresponding to the clinical specialties, and supplementary chapters on bacteriology, virology, parasitology, mycology, and entomology, with notes on laboratory tests and antibiotics. Since students learn in different ways this module has been written to accommodate different learning approaches. As a basic course in microbiology, all chapters are self-contained units.

MODULE III: SFA203, 3 Credits Prerequisites: SFA201 and 202
Title: PHARMACOLOGY

This module (1) blends the essentials of basic pharmacology and clinical pharmacology so that the transition from classroom to hospital is less abrupt, (2) organizes related drugs in tables, and (3) allows the student to learn about prototype drugs and the important ways that related drugs differ. Text surrounding each table emphasizes key issues pertaining to therapeutic rationale, basic pharmacologic principles, and clinical use of drugs.

MODULE IV: SFA 204, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, and 203
Title: ANESTHESIA, METHODS, AND AGENTS
This module covers the basics of anesthesia, as well as the different methods and the agents used, along with their relation to surgical circumstances. It also covers the ASA classification system.

MODULE V: SFA 205, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, and 204
Title: BIOSCIENCE

This module offers instruction in surgical events related to wound healing and the integrity of the surgical wound. Also covered are different diagnostic tests and the relationship between those tests and management of the surgical patient. Also discussed in detail are issues surrounding the care and handling of surgical specimens, management of the critically ill patient, thermoregulatory devices, fluid balances and related issues and, finally, skin assessment.

MODULE VI: SFA 206, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, 204, and 205
Title: ROLE DEFINITION AND INTERACTION

This module deals mainly with factors that will result in positive team relationships, the practice of professional ethics, and the parameters of one's specific role. Understanding that teamwork and interpersonal relationships are such an integral part in the overall care of the surgical patient, this module seeks to identify certain possible crises and problem areas, then gives the student an understanding as to how he/she should deal with each given situation.

MODULE VII: SFA 207, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, and 206
Title: ETHICAL, MORAL, AND LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES

This module enables the student to understand different legal definitions and terminology, and to understand and identify O.R. situations that could lead to ethical conflict. Students also gain an understanding of appropriate (and legal) decision making, as well as what determines negligence, basic patient and caregiver rights, O.R. incidents that could result in litigation, and problems peculiar to the surgical first assistant's role.

MODULE VIII: SFA 208, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, and 207
Title: FUNDAMENTALS

In this module the student will learn basic fundamentals and the surgical first assistant's role in regards to monitoring devices, bladder catheterization, positioning the surgical patient, applying pneumatic tourniquets, proper skin preparation, drapes and draping, operative instrumentation, visualization techniques, hemostasis, postoperative pain control, and transportation of the critically ill patient.

MODULE IX: SFA 209, 1 Credit Prerequisites: None
Title: WOUND HEALING, KNOT TYING, AND SUTURING

This module provides the student with principles and techniques, interactive didactics, and laboratory practicums, and examines and reviews wound healing and care, with specific focus on interventional techniques such as suturing, tying, and wound closure for a variety of injuries and incisions. Students will utilize the wound closure kit that is included with their course materials.

MODULE X: SFA 210, 2 Credits Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, and 208,
Title: SURGICAL PROCEDURES

This module will break down most major surgeries performed in the O.R. today. Each surgery

listed in the text will be explained step-by-step, from skin incision through final closure.

MODULE XI: SFA 211, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, and 210
Title: COMPLICATIONS IN SURGERY

During this module the student will recognize different surgical complications (hemorrhage, perforation of viscous or cavity, contamination, exposure, retraction, compression injuries, cardiac events, sudden hypoxia, sudden shock, interruption of surgical supervision, critical equipment failure and corrective measures, and how to initiate the appropriate course of action).

MODULE XII-XIII: SFA 212, 1 Credit Prerequisites: SFA 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 210, and 211
Title: COMPUTER AND BUSINESS ISSUES WITH THE FIRST ASSISTANT

The student will understand the basics of computer usage in a clinical setting, as well as business issues relating to the surgical first assistant such as starting and running your own assisting business, insurance reimbursement, etc.

Instructional Methods:

Online didactic instruction, chapter quizzes and end-of-module exam.

Grading Scale:

Chapter quizzes are for student enrichment and utilized as a tracking tool and grades are not recorded. However, an 80% must be achieved on all end-of-module exams.

Make-Up Policy:

Should a student receive less than an 80% on any module final exam he/she may retake the exam one more time. However, should the student fail the exam a second time he/she may be expelled for poor satisfactory academic progress. In the event that a second re-take is necessary the students grade will not be recorded any higher than an 80%.

Academic Integrity Policy:

All Meridian students are expected to conduct themselves in an ethical and professional manner. Every academic assignment, including papers, tests, or other assignments, is to be the work of the individual student. The following are examples of unethical or unprofessional behavior:

• Plagiarism
• Unprofessional behavior in communication with faculty and staff
• Completing an assignment for another student in part or in whole

Consequences:

Any student who acts in an unethical manner on a particular module will receive a failing grade for that module. Any second academic incident or unprofessional communication with staff or faculty can result in administrative termination from the Institute.

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

Official Course Syllabus

Course Title: Phase Two Credits: 3

Applied Science Lab

Course Number: SFA 301 Course Clock Hour Length: 60

Prerequisites: None Revision Date: 1/02/2009

________________________________________________________________________

Text:

Lab Notebook

Course Description:

The second phase of the SFA Online Program is the Applied Science Lab, which is 60 hours in length and consists of six 10-hour days. All labs take place in our state-of-the-art animal laboratory facility. Labs run from Monday through Saturday, and are scheduled twice monthly--on the second and last weeks of every month--with the exception that there are no labs offered in December. The lab schedule is subject to change; therefore, each student must contact Meridian to verify lab availability.

This lab is a very intense but extremely rewarding week. All procedures are done on anesthetized pigs, affording the benefit of understanding how to handle real tissue, real bleeding, and actual surgical emergencies.

There was a time when this type of training was reserved only for physicians. Meridianhas brought top-level physician training to the surgical first assistant..

In keeping withMeridian's philosophy, we believe that the only real way to become a quality assistant is to take part in real training. It is very difficult to train on rubberized pieces and parts, and then move forward to perform those same skills on surgical patients. We feel thatMeridian's prime responsibility to the students (and, ultimately, to the patients) is to be certain that our students graduate with proper experience in dealing with real and living tissue.

Course Outline:

Monday: 8:00-9:00 a.m. Wound Healing Lecture

9:00-12:00 Noon Basic Knot Tying and Suturing Practicum

12:00 Noon-12:30 p.m. LUNCH

12:30-3:00 p.m. Arterial and Bowel Anastomosis Lecture and Practicum

3:00-5:00 p.m. Advanced Anatomy Lecture

Tuesday: 8:00-9:00 a.m. Orthopedic, Neurosurgery Lecture

9:00-12:00 Noon Splinting and Casting Practicum

12:00 Noon-12:30 p.m. LUNCH

12:30-4:00 p.m. Legal, Ethical and Business Issues

4:00-5:00 p.m. Exam Review

Wednesday: 8:00-9:00 a.m. General Surgery Lecture

9:00-12:00 Noon General Surgery Animal Practicum

12:00 Noon-12:30 p.m. LUNCH

12:30-4:00 p.m. General Surgery Animal Practicum

4:00-5:00 p.m. Group Discussion, Case Review

Thursday: 8:00-9:00 a.m. Vascular Surgery Lecture

9:00- 12:00 NoonVascular Animal Practicum

12:00 Noon-12:30 p.m. LUNCH

12:30-4:00 p.m. Thoracic Animal Practicum

4:00-5:00 p.m. Group Discussion, Case Review

Friday: 8:00-9:00 a.m. Laparoscopic Surgery Lecture

9:00-12:00 Noon Laparoscopic Animal Practicum

12:00 Noon-12:30 p.m. LUNCH

12:30-4:00 p.m. Gyn/Misc. Procedures Animal Practicum

4:00-5:00 p.m. Group Discussion, Case Review

Saturday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Final Written and Practical Exam

Course Objectives:

Following are our skill objectives for the week:

One Hand Granny Knot

One Hand SquareKnot

One Hand Surgeons Knot

One Hand Sliding Knot

One Hand Posting Knot

Two Hand Granny Knot

Two Hand SquareKnot

Two Hand Surgeons Knot

Two Hand Sliding Knot

Two Hand Posting Knot

Instrument Granny Knot

Instrument Square

Tying on Instrument

Tying under tension

Follow finger down on knot

Place tie appropriately

Perform all ties with suture

Keep tension with dominant hand

Tie deep knot

Tie with sufficient speed

Simple Stitch

Whip Stitch

Vertical Mattress Stitch

Horizontal Mattress Stitch

Figure of Eight Stitch

Subcuticular Running Stitch

Interrupted Subcuticular Stitch

Heaney Stitch

Stick tie

Approximate skin edges

Tie on skin with sufficient tension

Use instruments correctly

Grasp needle with pickup

Cut suture to appropriate lengths

Bury knot under skin

Use dermabond correctly

Space sutures at correct intervals

Use suture conservatively

Perform correct mirror image

Good cosmetic effect

End-to-end Arterial Anastomosis on Gortex

End-to-side Arterial Anastomosis on Gortex

Side-to-side Arterial Anastomosis on Gortex

End-to-end Bowel Anastomosis on Excised Bowel

End-to-side Bowel Anastomosis on Excised Bowel

Side-to-side Bowel Anastomosis on Excised Bowel

Two-layer Bowel Closure

One-layer Bowel Closure

Watertight closure

Parachute tie

Tie with plaggetts

Tie on bowel

Tie on gortex

Tie prolene

Use correct amount of knots

Follow correctly

Point correctly

Give adequate exposure

Place sutures at appropriate distance on bowel

Place suture appropriately on gortex

Correct veres needle insertion

Correct trocar insertion

Understand trocar dangers

Understand veres needle dangers

Insert instruments into trocar correctly

Manipulation of instruments

Connect camera correctly

Drive camera correctly

0 Degree scope

Angled scope

Intracoporal tying

Use locking grasper

Use non-locking grasper

Use scissors

Handle bowel correctly

Correctly manipulate tissue

Use endo-loop

Perform blunt dissection

Operate suction device

Use endo-staplers

Use tear technique

Use lap bovie

Use lap bi-polar

Understand insufflation psi

Use lap-clip appliers

Perform lap gallbladder

Identify angle of kalot

Identify cystic artery

Identify cystic duct

Provide adequate retraction on gallbladder

Correctly ligate artery and duct

Correctly remove gallbladder from liver bed

Remove gallbladder from abdomen

Close incisions properly

Understand different open incisions

Correctly incise abdominal skin

Provide homeostasis in subcutaneous layer

Perform blunt dissection

Correctly incise peritoneum

Understand dangers of opening abdominal cavity

Identify ascending colon

Identify transverse colon

Identify descending colon

Identify ureters

Identify small intestine

Identify kidneys

Identify spleen

Identify vascular components

Identify Tinea

Identify miscellaneous structures when asked

Handle tissue correctly

Choose appropriate instrumentation

Place retractors appropriately

Provide adequate exposure

Provide hemostasis

Know when to suture and when to bovie bleeder

Perform blunt dissection

Perform sharp dissection

Dissect with bovie

Provide appropriate counter traction

Recognize bleeders promptly

Tie on bowel

Tie on mesentery

Make appropriate suture selection

Place clamp on tissue

Place clamp on vessel

Tie clamped tissue or vessel

Stick tie clamped tissue or vessel

Properly remove clamps from tissue or vessel

Manipulate clamp while surgeon is tying

Cut between clamps

Do not pass point while cutting

Do not pass point while operating bovie

Place bowel occlusion clamps

Understand bowel and colon resection lines

Keep field clear of blood

Keep tissue moist

Tie with both hands

Tie with needle on suture

Dissect mesentery

Perform end-to-end Bowel Anastomosis

Perform end-to-side Bowel Anastomosis

Perform side-to-side Bowel Anastomosis

Perform Bilroth II

Perform Spleenectomy

Perform Nephrectomy

Perform Small Bowel resection

Perform Low Anterior Resection

Perform Liver Resection

Assist on Small Bowel Resection

Assist on Liver Resection

Assist on Low Anterior Resection

Assist on Nephrectomy

Assist on Spleenectomy

Assist on Bilroth II

Hand sew anastomosis

Perform stapled anastomosis

Tie on Liver

Bovie on Liver

Dissect out vessels

Place vessel loops

Potts tie vessel loop

Tie off tributary vessels

Place vascular clamps

Handle vessels appropriately

Use suction to retract

Perform arterial bypass

Perform vessel to vessel anastomosis

Foil while suturing on vessel

Place suture with pickup

Suture with pleggets

Perform on-lay anastomosis

Perform end-to-end vascular anastomosis

Place umbilical tapes

Stop bleeding by pressure

Stop bleeding by suturing vessel

Repair anastomotic leaks

Choose correct vascular instrumentation

Harvest vein

Take down bladder

Understand thoracic incisions

Open chest

Locate a fissure

Handle lung tissue appropriately

Suture lung tissue

Tie on lung tissue

Retract lung tissue

Locate vascular components of lungs

Perform lobectomy

Assist on lobectomy

Repair resection line leak

Test for leaks

Suture on branches

Provide appropriate exposure of lungs

Dissect out lobes

Choose appropriate suture for lungs

Choose appropriate thoracic instruments

Understand reasons for chest tube insertion

Rinse cavity before closure

Inspect for proper homeostasis

Close peritoneum

Close fascia

Close subcu and skin

Choose appropriate closing material

Choose appropriate dressing material

Properly apply dressing

Insert drains

Understand different casting material

Select appropriate casting material

Understand skin conditions for casting

Understand vascular conditions of casting

Know when to cast postoperatively

Apply short arm cast

Apply long arm cast

Demonstrate proper pressure of cast

Apply appropriate padding

Choose appropriate cast for situation

Operate cast saw appropriately

Know fracture types

Know appropriate repair for different fractures

Select appropriate orthopedic equipment

Plate short bone fracture

Repair long bone fracture

Place plates appropriate to fracture site

Drill bone appropriately

Tap bone appropriately

Work depth gauge accurately

Place screws correctly

Do not compromise vascularity

Properly reduce fracture

Work equipment properly

Assist in fracture repair

Choose proper plate length

Know how to postoperatively dress fracture

Understand basics of bone plating

Properly read fracture on x-ray

Understand dangers of improper alignment

Understand malunion vs. non-union

Know levels of spine

Find spine levels on PT

Interpret spine levels on x-ray

Know spine anatomy

Understand danger of nerve root damage

Perform disectomy

Perform lumbar laminectomy

Assist on disectomy

Assist on lumbar laminectomy

Recognize dura leak

Know how to repair dura leak

Choose appropriate spine instrumentation

Operate Kerrision properly

Perform spinal fusion

Assist on spinal fusion

Insert pedicle screw

Insert rods

Properly reduce spine

Close back incision

Apply appropriate dressing to back

Define legal terminology

Define malpractice

Define negligence

Know scope of practice

Understand insurance billing regulations

Set up mock business

Choose appropriate corporate status

Understand basic tax structure

Write contracts

Write employee policies

Write job descriptions

Understand contract issues

Fill out hicfa form

Know medicare regulations

Know certification issues

Understand what to do during deposition

Know what culpable means

Define direct supervision

Know ACS position statement

Understand liability

Work as a team player

Know assistant responsibilities

Have a teachable attitude

Know function of O.R. team

Work well under pressure

Respond positively to criticism

Offer unprompted advice

Take initiative to perform tasks

Not aggressive but assertive

Confident in abilities

Goal oriented

Know importance of Patient First

Understand assistant-to-surgeon relationship

Knowledge of basic anatomy

Understand core assisting principles

Be willing to do all tasks instructed

Proper relations with O.R. team

Take role seriously

Understand difference between job and career

Be willing to strive to be the best

Instructional Methods:

All procedures are done on anesthetized pigs, affording the benefit of understanding how to handle real tissue, real bleeding, and actual surgical emergencies. An end-of-phase exam will be administered.

Grading Scale:

An 80% must be achieved on end-of-phase exams. All skill objectives will be graded on a pass and fail basis.

Make-Up Policy:

Should a student receive less than an 80% on the end-of-phase exam he/she may retake the exam one more time. However, should the student fail the exam a second time he/she may be expelled for poor satisfactory academic progress. In the event that a second re-take is necessary the students grade will not be recorded any higher than an 80%.

If a student fails to show proficiency in a majority of daily skills he/she must repeat the entire Phase Two.

Academic Integrity Policy:

All Meridian students are expected to conduct themselves in an ethical and professional manner. Every academic assignment, including papers, tests, or other assignments, is to be the work of the individual student. The following are examples of unethical or unprofessional behavior:

• Plagiarism
• Unprofessional behavior in communication with faculty and staff
• Completing an assignment for another student in part or in whole

Consequences:

Any student who acts in an unethical manner will receive a failing grade. Any second academic incident or unprofessional communication with staff or faculty can result in administrative termination from the Institute.

Attendance:

All students are required to attend the six day Applied Science Lab. At the time of booking each student will be sent a confirmation letter along with a confirmation number. If the student cancels within 30 days prior to the lab or fails to show for a scheduled and confirmed lab then that student will be assessed a $250.00 rescheduling fee. In the event that a student fails to show for a lab and has not rescheduled, then this can be interpreted as a failure to academically progress through the program and said student is subject to dismissal for poor academic progress.

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

Official Course Syllabus

Course Title: Phase Three Credit Hours: 10

Clinical Externship

Course Number: SFA 401 Course Clock Hour Length: 607.50

Prerequisites: SFA 209, 301 Revision Date: 1/02/2009

Malpractice Insurance

Affiliation Agreement

________________________________________________________________________

Text:

None

Course Description:

The clinical phase is intended to provide training and clinical practice in basic surgical skills applicable to the student surgical first assistant. Thus, the following are required:

1. Completion of 135 cases, as specified, in various specialties of surgery.

2. Training under direct supervision and guidance of a qualified preceptor or Surgeon.

3. Students have one year to complete the entire program. The start date is considered to be the date the student signed his/her Enrollment Agreement. Students do not have to complete all of the academic phase in order to attend the Applied Sciences lab; however, they must attend a lab before logging any clinicals.

Course Outline:

Clinical Externship is the third phase of the course, in which each student must complete 135 cases in the following areas:

A. General Surgery: Minimum of 35 cases
B. Minimum of 50 cases in the specialty of your choice
C. Minimum of 50 cases in additional specialties

Suggested additional specialties:
1. Pediatric surgery
2. Neurosurgery
3. Hand surgery
4. Plastic surgery
5. Obstetric and Gynecologic surgery
6. Thoracic surgery
7. Genitourinary surgery
8. Trauma surgery
9. Transplant surgery
10.Ear, nose, and throat surgery
11.Ophthalmic surgery
12.Cardiovascular surgery
13.Oral surgery
14.Procurement surgery
15.Orthopedic surgery
16.Endoscopic (lap and or thoracic)

All students must have at least one sponsoring surgeon, and all cases must be done with a sponsoring surgeon or a Meridian-approved preceptor. Students must fill out case logs on a daily basis, as well as secure one signed preceptor agreement form for each preceptor and signed evaluations on each case.

MERIDIAN INSTITUTE OF SURGICAL ASSISTING

STANDARDS OF CLINICAL EXTERNSHIP

The clinical phase is intended to provide training and clinical practice in basic surgical skills applicable to the student surgical first assistant. Thus, the following are required:

1. Completion of 135 cases (35 must be in General Surgery, 50 in a specialty of the student's choice, and the remainder in any specialty).
2. Training under direct supervision and guidance of a qualified preceptor or surgeon.
3. Students have one year to complete the entire program. The start date is considered to be the date the student signed his/her Enrollment Agreement. Students do not have to complete all of the academic phase in order to attend the Applied Sciences lab; however, they must attend a lab before logging any clinicals.

PRECEPTOR GUIDELINES

1. Must be proficient in all areas of surgery.
2. Must have practiced as surgeon or surgical assistant (with certification).
3. Has performed no less than two hundred cases in past twelve months (must be able to produce proof, if needed).
4. Must be honest and uphold the highest level of integrity when evaluating student and filling out necessary forms. If found otherwise, all cases supervised by this preceptor will not count towards completion.
5. Must be willing to spend needed time with student to share technical skills and knowledge about case, anatomy, etc.
6. Must be willing to sign preceptor agreement and abide by requirements of that agreement.

STUDENT GUIDELINES/OBJECTIVES DURING CLINICAL EXTERNSHIP

1. Student shall abide by all hospital policies and rules while in facility.
2. Student shall use only facilities that are JACHO accredited, or another Medicare-approved agency.
3. Student must submit an institutional Affiliation Agreement to their respective facility for approval and signature. The Affiliation Agreement must be signed and received by Meridian prior to the start of clinicals.
4. Student shall conduct himself/herself in a professional manner at all times.
5. Student must accept constructive criticism while maintaining a positive attitude. He/she must avoid a confrontational attitude with preceptor or surrounding staff.
6. Student shall first address any concerns/complaints with preceptor concerning clinical time. If not addressed to students satisfaction, then that student's concern may be brought to educators attention, and the grievance process will ensue only if necessary.
7. Student shall converse and report to preceptor at the end of each day to gauge progress of preceptorship.

TIME FRAME OBJECTIVES FOR PHASE THREE STUDENTS:

• Upon completion of first 10 cases, the student will be able to tie both deep and superficially while providing basic exposure, adequately positioning patient appropriate to procedure, and maintaining sterile technique upon catheterizing patient.
• Upon completion of 15 cases, the student will be able to perform basic tissue handling, advanced tying (around a hemostat, and suture ligatures), and provide appropriate exposure for surgeon.
• Upon completion of 20 cases, the student will be able to perform all basic skills outlined in the scope of practice found in handbook. The student should use the next 90 cases to refine his/her skills.

Each student must complete 90% of the tasks listed below, with proficiency, in order to document as having worked in the role of the surgical assistant.

1. Confirm placement and functionality of equipment and supplies with surgical team.
2. Confirm availability of specialty supplies with surgical team.
3. Communicate surgeons preference to surgical team.
4. Monitor and aid in the positioning of the patient according to surgeons preference.
5. Monitor and aid in the draping of the patient.
6. Provide visualization of the operative site during the operative procedure.
7. Using appropriate technique assist the surgeon in providing hemostasis.
8. Using appropriate technique assist with the closure of body planes.
9. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of normal and pathological anatomy and physiology, while assisting surgeon during procedures.
10. Confirm X-rays, MRIs, CTs , results of diagnostic tests, patient chart, etc. are in the operating room and available for review.

Instructional Methods:

All cases will be done under direct supervision of the Meridian approved preceptor. The preceptor will be responsible for instruction according to standards set forth by Meridian.

Grading Scale:

Pass/Fail

Make-Up Policy:

None

Academic Integrity Policy:

Meridian students are expected to conduct themselves in an ethical and professional manner. Every academic assignment, including papers, tests, or other assignments, is to be the work of the individual student. The following are examples of unethical or unprofessional behavior:

• Plagiarism
• Unprofessional behavior in communication with faculty and staff
• Completing an assignment for another student in part or in whole

1. Student shall abide by all hospital policies and rules while in facility.

2. Student will conduct himself/herself in a professional manner at all times.

3. Student must accept constructive criticism while maintaining a positive attitude. He/she will avoid confrontational attitude with preceptor or surrounding staff.

4. Student will handle concerns/complaints with preceptor first, concerning clinical time. lf not addressed to student's satisfaction, concern may be brought to educator's attention and grievance process will ensue only if necessary.

5. Student shall converse and report to preceptor at the end of each day to gauge progress of preceptorship

Consequences:

Any student who acts in an unethical manner will receive a failing grade. Any second academic incident or unprofessional communication with staff or faculty can result in administrative termination from the Institute.

Student work policy

Meridianunderstands that all of our students are employed at healthcare facilities while completing the preceptorship phase. Below is the policy in regards to your work policy as a student in relation to your clinicals.

Student Substitution for Paid Personnel:

Student must not be substituted for paid personnel to conduct the work of the clinical facility. However, after demonstrating proficiency students may be permitted to undertake certain defined activities with appropriate supervision and direction. Clinical phases of instruction should be educational. The substitution of students for regular departmental staff in performing departmental services is not considered to be educationally directed and, therefore, should not be used to fulfill the clinical requirements of the program.

Meridian Institute Of Surgical Assisting

The Perfect Choice For surgical training

www . Meridian-Institute.Com

TUITION INFORMATION

The Faculty atMeridianbelieves that we have developed the most comprehensive first assistant course available. By utilizing online modules, combined with hands-on workshops and cd-rom instruction, our course can be offered at a lower tuition than many other distance education program.

The program cost, which includes all online modules, Applied Sciences Lab, and clinical support as well as all associated texts and materials, is only $5,995.00. NOTE: As with everything else, program rates are subject to change periodically. The only additional expense is your transportation, lodging, and food for the week-long Applied Sciences Lab, as well as your malpractice insurance fee of approximately $29 to $100.00.

Several different payment options are available:

All payment plans are interest free

1. Full program costs paid upfront for a total current payment of $5,495.00. Student may pay their tuition utilizing a MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or Discover Card.

2. Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting offers Federal Financial Aid to those who qualify. This is administered through the U.S. Department of Educations Title IV program.

3. Other payment options as approved by the Director of Financial Aid.

These options are available to all students.

In the event that the student is approved for a payment plan option, all monthly payments must be paid by means of either a bank check card or major credit card. Students can select either the 1^st or 15^th of each month for such payments to be processed.

Most hospitals have excellent tuition reimbursement plans, so be sure to check into this option.Meridianwould be glad to assist you in working with your hospital.

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

SFA Online Program

Refund Policy

**THE STUDENT START DATE WILL BE CONSIDERED TO BE THE DATE THE STUDENT SIGNS THE ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT**

You, the student, may cancel your enrollment within a seven-day period after signing the enrollment agreement or prior to your start date for a full refund of all tuition and fees paid.

Once you have enrolled in the SFA Online Program and you determine that it is necessary to withdraw, you should immediately notify the Program Director, in writing, via the U.S. Postal Service.

E-mail withdrawals will not be accepted. Part of the fees you have paid may be refundable. The tuition refund amount shall be determined as follows:

Again, the student start date is considered to be the first day of the month following the month the student signs the enrollment agreement.

A students last day of attendance is the last day of academic activity.

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting determines a students withdrawal date by one of the following (whichever is sooner):

• The last date of academic activity as determined by the institution
• The post mark of the withdrawal letter

Refunds will be issued within 30 days from the date of determined withdrawal.

POLICY DATE: March 24, 2003

Revised: November, 2011

MERIDIAN INSTITUTE OF SURGICAL ASSISTING

GRADING SYSTEM AND CREDITS AWARDED

Online Module Exams:

13 EXAMS - All students must achieve 80% or higher on exams. If the student fails to achieve an 80% he/she will be given the opportunity to re-take the exam. In the event the exam is failed the second time the student will then be dropped from the course.

Applied Sciences Lab (Pass/Fail):

• Each group of students will have facilitators to help as well as grade progress for each day.
• The final exam will be given the last day of the Applied Sciences Lab. If the student fails to achieve an 80% they will be given the opportunity to re-take the exam. In the event the exam is failed the second time the student will then be dropped from the course. In the event of a retake the students maximum grade available will be 80%.

135 Case Clinical Preceptorship (Pass/Fail)

• A preceptor evaluation form must be filled out for each case. At the end of the preceptorship phase, all evaluations must average a minimum of a "good" rating. "Good" to "Excellent" ratings are desired as overall averages.

AS NOTED ABOVE, COMPLETION/PASSING OF THIS COURSE IS CONTINGENT UPON ACHIEVING AN 80% ON ALL EXAMS. AREAS OF LAB AND CLINICAL PRECEPTORSHIP ARE STRICTLY PASS/FAIL, AND THE FINAL LAB EXAM IS PROCTORED AND GRADED SEPARATELY.

Meridians SFA PROGRAM awards 32 college level credits. Transferability of these credits is left to the decision of the receiving institution.

Clock Hours and Credits Awarded:

Phase One: 285 hours, 19 semester credits

Phase Two: 60 hours, 3 semester credits

Phase Three: 607.50 hours, 10 semester credits

Credits are awarded as follows:

REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

To be qualified to graduate, the student must:

• Complete and receive a passing status in all three phases of the SFA Online Program
• Receive a minimum of 80% on all exams, including the proctored exam during Phase Two
• Meet all financial obligations to Meridian
• CAAHEP standards now dictate that all students must sit for a National Certification Exam. Therefore, all students will be required to schedule a date to sit for the CFA exam offered by the NBSTSA or the CSA exam offered by the NSAA prior to graduation. In the event that the student takes the exam prior to graduation the results will be released to the student upon graduation by the respective credentialing agencies.

Revised September 14, 2010

STUDENT COMPLETION AND EXTENSION POLICY

The policy below will outline the procedure and general issues in the event that any student does not finish the SFA ONLINE PROGRAM within the allotted 12 months.

ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE ALL THREE PHASES OF THE SFA ONLINE PROGRAM WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF THEIR INITIAL START DATE*, IN ACCORDANCE WITH MERIDIANS GRADING POLICY.

* The start date is considered to be the first of the month following the month in which the student signs his/her Enrollment Agreement. All students will be notified by the Director of Student Affairs via email when they are 60 days away from their completion date. Students will receive a certified letter when they are 30 days out from their completion date.

In the event that a student does not complete the program in the allotted 12-month time frame they may be eligible for a one-time six-month extension**. The final approval for the extension is at the discretion of the Program Director and will involve a $250.00 extension fee.

** Extensions will only be granted in extenuating circumstances as determined by the Program Director.

NOTE: EXTENSIONS WILL ONLY BE GRANTED ONE TIME FOR A PERIOD OF SIX MONTHS.

If the student fails to apply for an extension within the final 30 days of their allotted program completion time, or fails to complete the program at the end of an extension period, they will be dropped from the course and must re-enroll. Credit will be given for classes already completed.

If the student re-enrolls they will be given credit for work already completed, but must finish any uncompleted modules, labs, or clinicals in a 12-month period. All current tuition and fees will apply and must be paid by the re-enrolling student for any uncompleted portion of the program. The re-enrolled student will be considered a NEW student and will be subject to all academic and financial policies pertaining to all new students.

POLICY DATE: November 01, 2004

Revised: April 30, 2011

Meridian Institute Of Surgical Assisting

ADMISSION POLICY AND PROCESS

In order for a student to be enrolled into Meridians SFA Online Program the following must take place PRIOR to beginning any portion of the program.

1. All prospective students must meet the entrance requirements listed in the student catalogue.

1. The forms listed below must be received byMeridians Office of Student Affairs:

• Completed Application Checklist
• Completed Application with supporting attachments
• A signed enrollment agreement

1. The Student must :

Make an initial payment

OR

Have completed the Federal Financial Aid process as determined by the Department of Financial Aid.

Policy date: February 1, 2009

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

(Effective May 1, 2009)

Introduction:

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting is required to measure each student's satisfactory academic progress. All students must continue to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards during their enrollment.

Students will be given an Individual Education Plan that must be signed and returned to the Department of Academics.

SAP is measured at the end of the initial three-month period of enrollment, the six-month period of enrollment, as well as at the Ten-month period of enrollment. All students will receive academic advisements of their SAP every 3, 6 and 10 months. The student's academic progress is measured using two components: Qualitative and Quantitative Measures of Academic Progress. If the student does not meet the minimum requirements for the two components they will be placed into a guided learning program and removed from the self-paced portion of the program. Students who are identified as making insufficient academic progress have the option to appeal.

Qualitative Measures of Academic Progress

The qualitative measure of academic progress is based on achieving an 80% on all module exams and the Applied Science Lab final exam, passing all lab skills, and completing of the clinical externship.

Quantitative Measures of Academic Progress

Students must successfully complete all didactic modules within the initial six months of enrollment. All students must make arrangements to, and attend the applied science lab within the initial six months of enrollment. Students must have completed all three phases within a 12 month period on enrollment.

Remedial Coursework:

If enrollment to the program has been confirmed and the determination has been made that the student has not shown sufficient academic progress then he/she will be placed into a guided learning format for the didactics. If the student fails to pass all skills in the applied science lab, then remedial lab time will be necessary to complete the program. This must be scheduled at a different time than the original lab week.

Maximum Time Frame:

The student may not exceed 150% of the published length of the program.

All Students utilizing Federal Financial Aid will be required to sign the following statement:

I _____________________________ understand that the second disbursement of Federal Financial Aid will not be received to the school until the mid-point has been met. The mid-point has been defined as enrollment of six months into Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting Program, completion of all twelve academic modules, and completion of the one week Science Lab in which I will have to pay for any travel/lodging expenses incurred during the trip to Nashville.

Furthermore, I understand that any Federal Aid will be received by the school in two disbursements. Any award that is over the amount of tuition will not be reimbursed to me until the entirety of the tuition is paid in full.

I understand that any award due to me may not be released by Meridian Institute until the mid-point is met.

If I have any further questions I will contact Celia White.

Appeal Process:

Insufficient Progress Notification

When students are notified that they have been identified as showing poor academic progress they have the right to appeal to the Program Director.

Step 1: Student must make a written appeal and give an explanation as to the reason(s) they believe they should not have been identified as showing poor academic progress.

Step 2: The Program director will review the appeal provided within 48 hours. The Director may render one of the following decisions:

Step 3: The Program director will notify the student of the decision through the institution's email system.

Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting

Grievance Policy

1. Introduction

Meridian is committed to mutual respect among all constituents of the institutes community. This commitment includes students, faculty, staff, and administration alike. In all concerns about fair treatment, we seek to work together to understand and address those concerns without having to resort to formal grievance procedures. When that is not possible, we are at all levels committed to a fair and reasonable resolution of issues through a formal grievance process guided by the information and documentation provided in the process. The regulation described below guides the orderly procedure of grievance, and attempts at resolution.

2. What May Be Grieved

2.1 This procedure is to be used to resolve grievances against decisions or actions that were made by employees or agents of Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting.

All grievances of an academic nature should be sent to:

Roy Zacharias Jr., Dean of Academics, 1507 County Hospital Rd. Nashville TN 37218 (615) 678-8196

All grievances for non academic related issues should be sent to:

Larry Stover , Vice President, 1507 County Hospital Rd. Nashville TN 37218 (615) 678-8196

2.2 An action or decision is grievable only if it involves a misapplication or misinterpretation of institute policy, regulation, or rule, or a violation of state or federal law. Grievances may not be used to challenge policies or procedures of general applicability.

2.3. Claims against an employee on matters that are unrelated to the employee's job or role at the Institution may not be greived

3. Who May Grieve

The procedures set forth below may be used by grievants who are enrolled as students at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting, at the time of the incident being grieved. The person filing the grievance must be the alleged victim of unfair treatment; a grievance cannot be filed on behalf of another person.

4. Other Remedies

The existence of this procedure does not bar grievants from also filing claims in other forums to the extent permitted by state or federal law.

5. Time Limits

The formal resolution process described below must be initiated within 60 days of the decision, action, or events giving rise to the grievance. This time limit may be extended by the Program Director or Administrator with jurisdiction over the grievance, if the grievant makes the request for extension within the 60 day period, for good cause shown (e.g., an active effort at informal resolution )

6. Informal Resolution, Generally

6.1 The grievant should first discuss the issue with the person(s) responsible for the action or decision being grieved, and with that person's supervisor (or higher administrative authority), if feasible. This is not required in cases where the grievant believes that efforts at informal resolution may result in retaliation or other unfair treatment.

6.2 On those occasions where contact between the Program Director and the student is inevitable or deemed potentially useful the Program Director should clarify for the student the difference between his/her role at the informal stage of resolution and what it would be at the formal stage of resolution.

7. Informal Resolution, Civil Rights Grievances

If a student believes that he or she has been discriminated or retaliated against based upon race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability, s/he should notify the Director of Student Affairs, The Director may discuss the issue with all parties and attempt to facilitate an informal resolution. The Director shall make efforts to resolve the issue as soon as practical, and shall maintain a record of all communications and documents. This record shall be kept confidential to the extent required and allowed by law.

8. Grade Grievances - Formal Resolution

8.1 Students should first pursue informal resolution of grade grievances. If informal resolution is not satisfactory or the time limit for filing a formal grievance is about to expire, then the student may proceed as follows.

8.2 Otherwise, grade grievances must be presented in writing to the program director for resolution. The Program Director shall inquire into the matter and send a written decision to the student and faculty member. These procedures are laid out to guide the formal grievance of final grades only. Test grades and partial grades are not deemed appropriate for formal grievance.

8.3 In no event shall persons who review a grade grievance substitute their subjective judgment about academic quality for the judgment of the instructor. However, grievances may be substantiated if it is determined on the basis of the evidence that the grade was based on a factor other than academic merit, or if there has been a clear error in grading based on objective criteria.

10. Other Grievances - Formal Resolution

10.1 Step One

10.1.1 If informal resolution is not successful, the student may file a grievance by sending a request for hearing along with the following information to the individual with supervisory authority over the person(s) named in the grievance as causing harm to grievant. 10.1.2 The grievance must:

10.1.2a be in writing;

10.1.2b state how the decision or action is unfair and harmful to the grievant and list the University policies or state or federal laws that have been violated, if known;

10.1.2c name the respondent parties (the person(s) against whom the grievance is filed);

10.1.2d state how the respondents are responsible for the action or decision,

10.1.2e state the requested remedy

10.1.3 If it is clear on the face of the written grievance that the grievance has not been filed within the time limit, or pertains to a matter not grievable under this procedure, or is from a person without grievance rights under this grievance, the Director of Student Affairs shall so indicate in a letter to the grievant and the grievance shall be dismissed. If the grievance is not dismissed, the Director of Student Affairs , or a designee, shall appoint a panel of four persons to hear the grievance and shall provide them with a copy of these procedures and the written request for hearing. Panel members shall include two students and two faculty members.

10.2 Step Two:

The panel shall meet, elect a chair, and send the grievant's hearing request to the respondent(s), all within ten business days of being appointed. The chair shall offer respondent(s) an opportunity to provide a written response to the allegations within ten business days to the panel chair. The chair may also instruct the parties that they have ten business days to provide each other and the panel with (i) copies of any exhibits they wish to introduce as evidence, and (ii) a list of witnesses that each party will call. The chair may extend the deadlines for submitting a response and for exchanging proposed exhibits upon a showing of good cause.

10.3 Step Three

10.3.1 The chair shall notify the parties of the hearing date, time, and place at least ten business days in advance of the hearing. (The panel may schedule additional days for hearing, if needed, after the hearing is underway, so long as all parties receive reasonable advance notice of the additional dates.). The response to the grievance must be distributed to the panel and all parties at least ten University business days prior to the hearing.

10.3.2 The hearing must be tape recorded so that all persons can be clearly heard

10.3.3 Each party may choose to have one observer present who is not a witness. Observers may not provide representation or otherwise participate in the proceeding, but may speak to their respective parties off the record so long as it does not interfere with the hearing.

10.3.4 The panel may request procedural advice from an attorney .

10.3.5 The panel has the authority to rule on procedural matters . The panel may decline to consider evidence for reasons of excessive redundancy, immateriality, irrelevance, and other good cause.

10.3.6 Formal rules of evidence will not apply, and the panel may consider any evidence it believes to be relevant and reliable.

10.3.7 Each party may make an opening and closing statement (grievant first and respondent(s) second in opening; grievant first, respondent(s) second, and grievant last in closing) of a time duration to be determined by the panel. After any opening statements, the grievant shall present his/her testimony and exhibits, and present any witness testimony. The respondent(s) shall have an opportunity to ask questions of the grievant and witnesses. The next step is for the respondent(s) to present any testimony, exhibits, and witnesses, to be followed by questioning from the grievant. Rebuttal and other follow-up testimony is at the discretion of the panel. Closing statements from each party conclude this step of the hearing process. Panel members may ask questions or request additional information, documents, or witnesses at any time prior to adjournment. At the conclusion of this step of the procedure, the parties and witnesses shall be excused.

10.4 Step Four

10.4.1 The panel shall deliberate and reach a decision on the grievance in closed session. Deliberations are not tape recorded or transcribed. The decision must be based solely on material presented in the grievance. The panel should be careful not to substitute its judgment for that of the respondent(s). Rather, the panel should decide if the decision being grieved was the result of a misapplication or misinterpretation of university policies, regulations, or rules or a violation of state or federal law. The burden is on the grievant to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the grievant has experienced an injury that would entitle the grievant to relief and that such injury is remediable.

10.4.2 The chair of the panel shall compile an official record of the proceeding that includes a copy of all correspondence with the parties, all evidence submitted to the panel (documentary evidence that the panel declined to consider must be so marked and segregated), the recording or transcript of the hearing, and anything else considered by the panel in reaching its recommendation. The chair of the panel shall be responsible for ensuring that a written report is prepared that addresses and resolves all material factual issues in dispute, that states a conclusion as to whether the student was subjected to misapplication or misinterpretation of policy or state or federal law, and if so recommends remedies as appropriate. The report and official record shall be delivered to President, with copies of the report to be sent to the parties, within sixty calendar days after the hearing. A dissenting panel member may file a minority report at the same time.

10.5 Step Five

The President shall issue a written decision within twenty business days of receipt of the panel's report and official record. The decision may either adopt the panel report in whole, modify it in part, or reject the report and reach different findings or conclusions for reasons expressly stated to clarify the record or cure This decision shall be sent to the parties (certified mail return receipt, or personal delivery with a signed and dated receipt, to the grievant) and may be shared with the panel members.

11. Confidentiality

Panel members, witnesses, parties, and all other persons involved in the grievance proceeding are expected to maintain strict confidentiality regarding the proceeding. State and federal laws govern the privacy rights of students and employees.

12. Ex Parte Contacts

Once a hearing (formal resolution) has been requested, there should be no ex parte communication between parties and panel members concerning the merits of the case. An ex parte contact or communication is one sided; it occurs when one person shares information with a panel member without including all other parties. To prevent this from occurring, all communications that (a) occur outside the recorded hearing, and (b) are between one or more parties and one or more panel members, should be in written form and distributed simultaneously to all parties and panel members. Discussion of the merits of the case or presentation of evidence outside the hearing should be avoided. The rule against ex parte contacts also applies to communication with the final decision-maker and everyone who is responsible for deciding appeals.

13. Appeal Routes

Grievance decisions may be appealed as follows:

13.1 All Grievances may be appealed to The Board of Directors for the institution

14. Appeal Procedures

14.1 The aggrieved party may appeal by delivering written notice of appeal to the Board of Directors. Appeals received more than ten days after the decision was received (or delivery of the decision was attempted) will not be allowed.

14.2 Written notice of appeal must (i) identify the person whose decision is being appealed, (ii) provide a brief statement of the grounds for appeal, which at minimum should contain a list of alleged errors in the decision or decision-making process, (iii) to the extent possible, state which law(s), or institution policy(ies) has been violated by each of the alleged errors, (iv) indicate what remedy is requested, (v) be signed by the appellant and dated, and (vi) include a copy of the decision being appealed.

14.3 Once notice of appeal has been delivered, the Institute President whose decision is being appealed shall forward the record of the case to the Board of Directors hearing the appeal. The record shall consist of all information considered in the decision-making process, the panel's recommendation, and the decision(s) of the President. The record shall be compiled in chronological order to the extent feasible, and shall include a table of contents for ease of reference. .

14.4 The Board hearing the appeal may ask the parties to submit written statements of their positions for purposes of appeal and will render a decision based on review of the record of the case and any written appeal statements submitted by the parties. The Boards decision is final. There is no right to a hearing or oral presentation in appeals.

15. If the grievant is still unsatisfied with the Board of Directors final decision they may file a complaint with:

1. Tennessee Higher Education Commission

Parkway Towers, Suite 1900

James Robertson PKY

Nashville, TN 37243

(615)-741-5293

2. Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

1361 Park Street

Clearwater, FL 33756

( 727)-210-2350

3. Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools

7777 Leesburg Pike, Suite 314

N. Falls Church, Va. 22043

(703) 917-9503

TRANSFERABILITY OF CREDITS DISCLOSURE

Credits earned at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting may not transfer to another educational institution. Credits earned at another educational institution may not be accepted by Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting. You should obtain confirmation that Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting will accept any credits you have earned at another educational institution before you execute an enrollment contract or agreement. You should also contact any educational institutions that you may want to transfer credits earned at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting to determine if such institutions will accept credits earned at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting prior to executing an enrollment contract or agreement. The ability to transfer credits from Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting to another educational institution may be very limited. Your credits may not transfer and you may have to repeat courses previously taken at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting if you enroll in another educational institution. You should never assume that credits will transfer to or from any educational institution. It is highly recommended, and you are advised to make certain, that you know the transfer of credit policy of Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting and of any other educational institutions you may in the future want to transfer the credits earned at Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting before you execute an enrollment contract or agreement.