SOUTH DAKOTA HUMAN SERVICES CENTER

WELCOMES YOU!

AN OVERVIEW FOR STUDENTS

Welcome to the South Dakota Human Services Center ! Your student experience should allow for great professional contributions and personal growth. You will be learning from a dynamic team of professionals, dedicated to serving the citizens of South Dakota who are receiving treatment in a state-of-art facility. This pamphlet is designed to offer guidance for your student experience. This guide does not replace Center policy; feel free to access the HSC policy manuals in the HSC Medical Library. If your advisor/supervisor has told you information that conflicts with what is included in this pamphlet, you should consult your advisor/supervisor for clarification. Please read this guide, keep it accessible for future reference, and consult your advisor/supervisor with questions or for additional information.

Feel free to consult the Staff Development staff at any time at (605) 668-3592 if you have specific questions or need assistance and cannot reach your advisor/supervisor.

HSC welcomes your suggestions as to information that should be included in future revisions of this publication - please inform the HSC Staff Development staff. Our goal is to best serve students to maximize their ease in adapting to the HSC environment.

CONTENTS PAGE

HISTORY OF HSC

MISSION STATEMENT

OVERVIEW OF HSC SERVICES

EXPECTATIONS:

Attire

Benefits

Case Presentation

Choosing a Patient to Follow

Computers.

Continuing Education

Emergency Contact Telephone

Emergency Codes

Fraternization

Keys

Injury

Insurance

Interviewing Patients

Library

Meals and Snacks

Parking

Personal Possessions

Reporting to Duty

Reporting Absence/Tardiness

Tobacco Use

Videotaping

MAP

Refer to Tour of Campus.

HISTORY OF HSC:

South Dakota Human Services Center (HSC) was established in Yankton, SD, in 1879, ten years before South Dakota Statehood. Over 100 years later, the Center continues to provide care, treatment and rehabilitation services for mentally ill and chemically dependent residents of South Dakota.

The Mickelson Building was initiated and proposed by then Governor George S. Mickelson and was approved by the 1992 South Dakota State Legislature with overwhelming support. The project was completed and relocation to the new site occurred in the Fall, 1996.

Governor George S. Mickelson (1941-1993) was South Dakota’s 28th Governor. The facility was named in his honor as an expression of appreciation and respect for his vision. He believed in providing the best possible treatment programs, services and facilities for South Dakotans. The term "neurosciences" reflects the advances in treatment for persons with brain diseases. Link to Table of Contents.

MISSION STATEMENT:

HSC’s mission is to provide persons who are mentally ill or chemically dependent with effective, individualized professional treatment which enables them to achieve their highest level of personal independence in the most therapeutic environment. Link to Table of Contents.

OVERVIEW OF HSC SERVICES:

ADULT ACUTE PSYCHIATRIC PROGRAM:

The Human Services Center provides acute inpatient psychiatric treatment for adults, age 18 years of age and older. Julie Schaa serves as Director of the Adult Acute Psychiatric Program.

Adult Acute Program provides for initial assessment of adult psychiatric patients. During the 15-day average length of stay, the program initiates and develops treatment and discharge plans. The program promotes and facilitates the patients’ independent functioning in daily activities. Emphasis is on providing care, treatment, and rehabilitation services that will enable the patients to return to and function in the community at the earliest possible time. The Acute Program currently consists of four treatment units with a total bed capacity of 60. Patients admitted for psychiatric treatment are assigned to these units on a rotation basis. The Acute Program is Medicare approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

ADULT PSYCHIATRIC REHABILITATION & RECOVERY PROGRAM:

The Human Services Center provides adult psychiatric rehabilitation and recovery services for adults, age 18 years and older.  Kent Folkers, OT-R, serves as Director of teh Adult Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Recovery Program.

Psychiatric Rehabilitation Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program provides services for adult patients who are coping with persistent mental illness and who need to remain at the hospital for longer periods of time. The goal of the program is to assist the patients in developing the skills that will help them to live in the least restrictive setting possible. Both on-unit and off-unit education, training, and vocational experiences are provided to prepare the patient for community placement. Just prior to community placement patients may receive special training on those skills needed to make the adjustment to outpatient living. The Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program consists of one Community Preparedness Unit and two Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Units. Total bed capacity is 61 patients, and additional patients may receive training and education through the Life Skills Program.

INTENSIVE TREATMENT UNIT (ITU):

Intensive Treatment Unit (ITU) is a 15-bed unit that is structurally divided into two distinct areas.  Opened in July 1998, the unit provides closer observation for patients who pose a high risk for harming themselves or others.  One area is designated for care of adolescents, the second area for care of adults.  The ITU is also approved by the Centers for Mediare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

    

GERIATRIC PROGRAM:

The Human Services Center provides inpatient diagnostic and therapeutic services for individuals who, in addition to psychiatric treatment needs, have medical and/or physical care needs that require the level of care provided by a nursing home.  Rebecca Parish serves as the Nursing Facility Administrator of the Geriatric Program where care and treatment is provided for patients who, because of the severity of their mental illness, cannot be served by a nursing home in the community.  A psychiatrist, registered nurse, social worker, and direct-care case manager develop a comprehensive individualized treatment plan for every patient on admission, with emphasis on providing the patient every opportunity to function as independently as possible in activities of daily living.  A treatment goal is for the patient to live in the least restrictive environment, including discharge when appropriate community support services are available.  Care, treatment, and rehabilitation provided by direct-care staff is coordinated with occupational therapy, social services, and therapeutic recreational programming.  Additional services are available on a referral basis from a registered dietician, occupational therapist, physical therapist, psychologist, speech/hearing pathologist, and audiologist. 

The Geriatric Program is surveyed annually by the State Health Department to insure compliance with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Standards for Long-Term-Care Facilities and to certify the Program as a Nursing Facility for Individuals with a Mental Disease.  Being certified as a Nursing Facility for Individuals with a Mental Disease qualifies the Geriatric Program to receive Medicaid monies for patients 65 years of age or older who require long-term psychiatric and medical care and who are unable to pay for the services.  Total capacity is 69 patient beds. 

ADOLESCENT PROGRAM:

The Human Services Center provides inpatient treatment for adolescents with mental illness or severe emotional disturbance. Jody Smith, MA, serves as the Director of the Adolescent Program, which includes three units for Adolescent Psychiatric Program.

Adolescent Psychiatric Program provides adolescents with inpatient psychiatric treatment.  All HSC adolescent psychiatric units are Medicaid certified. The goal of the adolescent program is to develop and initiate individualized treatment and discharge plans, provide effective treatment, and to support the patient in transition to home or another appropriate placement setting. Length of hospitalization is based on the needs of the individual patient. The Birch 2 adolescent unit, serves patients ages 12 through 17 years of age, which consists of 15 beds, was established in November 1999, to meet the increasing need for acute psychiatric services for adolescents in South Dakota. The Oak 1 unit consists of 20 beds and serves patients 12 through 17 and the Oak 2 unit has 12 beds and serves patients 12 through 17 years of age.

CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY PROGRAM:

The Human Services Center provides inpatient chemical dependency treatment for adults and adolescents. Jody Smith, MA, also serves as Director of the Steps Beyond Adolescent Chemical Dependency Program and the Gateway Adult Chemical Dependency Program.

Steps Beyond Adolescent Chemical Dependency Program is accredited by the South Dakota Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse as a 20-bed inpatient alcohol/drug treatment facility. Patients’ referrals must be pre-arranged with the Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse. Patients served are 12 to 17 years of age and must have a dependency diagnosis. The treatment is based on the Twelve-Step Program of Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous and is 60 to 120 days in length. Certified Chemically Dependency Counselors provide treatment on the Adolescent Chemical Dependency Program.

Gateway Adult Chemical Dependency is based on the holistic approach of treatment utilizing the Twelve-Step Program of Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous. The program is accredited by the Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse and the Department of Health as a 32-bed inpatient alcohol/drug treatment facility. All referrals must be pre-arranged through designated local referral centers with treatment placements made by the Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Pierre, SD. Patients must be residents of the State of South Dakota, must be 18 years of age or older, and must have a dependency diagnosis. The Gateway Program is a highly individualized program designed to meet the specific needs of each patient. In addition, this program offers very innovative treatment for patients with a Dual Diagnosis of mental illness/chemical dependency. Link to Table of Contents.

EXPECTATIONS:

ATTIRE:

Student identification badges are required to be worn at the times while on HSC campus. Students may choose to cover their last names if they have concern that upon discharge a patient may try to locate the student.

Students will be in numerous settings, so wear a light wrap that is removable for personal comfort for fluctuating temperatures. Students may wear professional street attire. Student should wear clean, casual clothes, appropriate for a hospital work environment. Wear shoes that allow for safety, rapid response in emergency situations, for comfort when walking considerable distances. Avoid large earrings, heavy neck chains, shorts or other hazardous or inappropriate attire. Students should avoid collars or hooded clothing with ties; clip-on or neck-ties are preferred instead of around-the-neck ties. Do not wear stethoscopes around the neck. Dress appropriately for the clientele you will be serving and consult staff for guidance. Certain areas have specific recommendations regarding attire for students, staff and patient security. Students do not need to wear "white clothing". A white jacket may be a bit intimidating for some patients. Also, some students have found that since most HSC employees do not wear lab jackets, that such attire sets them apart. The jacket may elicit undue attention whereby all patients want to see that student believing they are some unique "specialist". Link to Table of Contents.
BENEFITS:

Students receive no benefits. Students are allowed access to use of specific facilities. Students may have limited access to various facilities at HSC Activities Center, including: Locker Rooms (own towels required); Gymnasium, including weight machine, exercise bikes, basketball hoops and balls; Small Activities Room; Lounge, including billiards, foosball, ping pong and TV. Available times are Monday through Friday, 11:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Students are allowed access to HSC’s Medical and Patients’ Library for University-related research, reference and work activities. Link to Table of Contents.

CASE PRESENTATION:

Some students are required to make a case presentation. Please see the HSC Staff Development staff for guidance. The staff will prepare the notices for HSC staff, will take responsibility for room reservations and set-up, will assist students in getting all audiovisual equipment and will help with copying and collating of handout material. Please contact the HSC Staff Development staff at (605) 668-3592 as soon as possible preferably 2-3 weeks in advance of your scheduled presentation. Link to Table of Contents.

CHOOSING A PATIENT TO FOLLOW:

Medical students are assigned to follow an individual patient. Please consult the social worker assigned to the Treatment Unit. The social worker can assist you in choosing a case that will enhance your education. For your convenience when choosing a patient to follow, consider a patient from the local area. This will make it much easier to follow the patient upon discharge. Medical students often can see the patient upon discharge from HSC even if the patient has follow-up at the local Mental Health Center.

Students may not escort patients. Consult HSC staff regarding the patient’s level of privileges. Request assistance from staff for patients needing to be escorted.

All patient information is strictly confidential. Any disclosure of patient information, including the person’s presence in treatment, or description of any person, without a specific written consent. Link to Table of Contents.

COMPUTERS:

There is limited access to computers for use by students. The computers on the treatment units may be used by students when not in use by staff.

Orientation will be provided for students approved for use of HSC’s dictation system. For assistance, contact Medical Records staff at (605) 668-3186. Link to Table of Contents.

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

HSC Staff Development offers a variety of continuing education. Students are welcome to attend. Notices are forwarded to treatment units. Students are expected to pre-register if required. Link to Table of Contents.

EMERGENCY CONTACT TELEPHONE:

Throughout your student experience at HSC you may be reached at: 605-668-3100. The Telecommunications Operator will page for you through the overhead intercom system. Personal calls are to be limited; however, you may need to leave an emergency contact telephone number for daycare providers, etc.

Pay telephones are located on the treatment units and near the Snack Shop. Link to Table of Contents.

EMERGENCY CODES:

Refer to the cover of the HSC Telephone Directory for a listing of Emergency Codes. The HSC has codes to alert staff to emergency situations. To report an HSC on-campus emergency Dial 3111 . Tell the Operator:

Who you are

Where you are

What the emergency is

What you need

Wait for the Operator to repeat the message. Stay on the telephone. Let the HSC Telecommunications Operator hang up first. Staff will immediately respond to assist with the emergency situation.

Students should take directives from the staff person in charge of the emergency and assist accordingly.

In the event of FIRE, the emergency evacuation routes are clearly marked with a lighted EXIT sign.

In the event of tornado or severe storm, listen carefully to the overhead paging system. Areas on patient treatment units are reinforced storm shelters; report to the treatment unit for storm protection. Link to Table of Contents.

FRATERNIZATION:

Fraternization either with patients of the Mickelson Center or trusties of the South Dakota State Penitentiary is strictly prohibited. Students are expected to comply with all HSC rules and regulations. Noncompliance may result in immediate termination of the internship and eviction from Center premises. Students may not give gifts to patients.

Professional demeanor is expected at all times while at HSC. Link to Table of Contents.

KEYS:

HSC staff will order keys and will have the keys delivered to you if approved. Keys issued to students shall be carried with them while on HSC campus. Keys shall be kept as concealed as possible when not in use, carried in pockets, fastened securely to clothing. Keys are not to be carried conspicuously or rattled unnecessarily. Keys must be carefully guarded and may not be shared for the security and safety of students, staff, patients, and visitors. Keys must be returned upon completion of your student experience at the Center. Keys that are lost or not returned can result in fines. Everyone who unlocks a door is required to also lock the door.

Check all doors you unlock after you go through to make sure the door is locked and secure. Do not allow anyone on or off the unit unless you have confirmed with staff that it is okay. A patient’s status can change significantly from day-to-day.

Do not let unidentified people out of the facility.

Students are restricted to the areas to which they are assigned. All other areas are considered off limits unless you have been granted special permission to access restricted areas.

Keys shall not be given to patients, other students or employees or anyone for any purpose at any time. Link to Table of Contents.

INJURY:

In the event of injury while at HSC, it is the student’s responsibility to notify their supervisor immediately. Following administration of first aid or medical attention, students will need to complete report forms in Personnel Office.

HSC accepts no responsibility for students injured while at the facility. Link to Table of Contents.

INSURANCE:

Although many benefits are available to full-time employees, HSC is unable to provide health, life insurance or other benefits for students. Please assure personal health, liability and other insurance coverage deemed appropriate are in place prior to your student experience at HSC. HSC is unable to assume any liability, either personal or fiscal, under the student program. Link to Table of Contents.

INTERVIEWING PATIENTS:

When students need to interview patients, please call ahead directly to the patient’s treatment unit. This will allow HSC staff time to re-arrange any schedules and will give the patient time to prepare.

Prior to interviewing patients, make sure you consult staff to be aware of any concerns for your safety. For everyone’s safety, you may want to meet with the patient in the day area nearest the Nurses Station. Be certain staff know where you are meeting with the patient if you go to a room on the treatment unit. You should sit in the chair nearest the door. Often it is best to leave the meeting room door slightly ajar.

Students should be especially cautious to have staff within sight or hearing distance. This is vitally important when meeting individually with patients of the opposite sex to protect oneself from false accusation of inappropriate behavior. Students should be especially mindful of using professional and appropriate touch only. Link to Table of Contents.

LIBRARY:

Medical Library Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00a.m. - 4:30p.m. (Close for half hour at lunch from 12:30-1:00) Not open on holidays or weekends. The HSC Library telephone number is (605) 668-3165. The Library receives periodical subscriptions in psychiatry, psychology, medicine, nursing, geriatrics, social work, etc.

The Library offers a photocopier for student use; copies may be made for 10 cents a page.

Journals may be checked out for one week. A copy of the journal listing is available in the HSC Medical Library. The Index table is holding Index Medicus, Hospital Literature Index and Nursing Index. The Card catalogue is divided into author, title and subject. Books are checked out for two weeks at a time. The REFERENCE COLLECTION is for library use only. Items in the vertical file may be checked out for one week.

A-V equipment in the library conference room may be used in the library for viewing videotapes. The room may also be used for conferences for students meeting with their teaching physician or supervisor here at HSC.

Interlibrary loans of journals, articles or books may be obtained from other libraries. FAX MACHINE is also in the library. (HSC Library Fax # 605-668-3222).

Students are advised to please ask for help or assistance if needed. The Librarian needs as much time as possible to obtain ILL items because only one staff person is assigned to Medical and Patient Libraries and may be busy with other projects. Link to Table of Contents.

MEALS AND SNACKS:

HSC Snack Shop is open for use by students. The Snack Shop is located near the Activities Center. Orders may be placed for pick-up or arrangements may be made for delivery by calling 668-3161.

Students may also eat meals provided by A'viands at the Food Services Building. Call 668-3287 for details.

Vending machines for soft drinks and snacks are at convenient locations in the main corridors. Link to Table of Contents.

PARKING:

Students may park in the large parking area directly in front of the Administration Building. This is the parking area nearest to the Highway 81 entrance. During inclement winter weather, students are to park South of the Administration Building. Do not leave valuables visible in your car, remove the keys, and lock your car. Everyone is expected to obey traffic and parking rules; the speed limit on campus is 10 mph. Link to Table of Contents.

PERSONAL POSSESSIONS:

Limit the personal possessions that you bring with you to HSC. Students may have access to storage cabinets; consult your instructor or your assigned supervisor at HSC.

It is also advisable to limit what you bring with you to the treatment unit. Do not leave personal possessions at the Nurses Station or laying around the unit.

Carefully consider what you are bringing with you to HSC. Weapons or potential weapons of any type are strictly prohibited! Do not take to the treatment unit: glass, rope, wire (i.e. spiral bound notebooks), scissors, cigarette lighters, aspirin or other medications, umbrellas, etc. These items could be used as weapons or be of potential harm to patients. Link to Table of Contents.

REPORTING TO DUTY:

All students shall report to the main front entrance of the HSC Administration Building. Students who know their assigned treatment unit and supervisor should report accordingly. Students may consult HSC staff, especially the Telecommunications Operator for directions to their assigned unit. Please make your presence known on the unit by alerting staff at the Nurses Station that you have arrived.

Students needing assistance should consult their University advisor to make necessary contacts prior to the students arrival at HSC. Link to Table of Contents.

REPORTING ABSENCE/TARDINESS:

Students must contact assigned supervisors if they are unable to report as scheduled. Contacts should be made at least one-hour in advance of the scheduled reporting time. Supervisors may be reached by calling them directly if you know their number or you may contact them through the main switchboard at: 605-668-3100. Your call can be transferred to your supervisor or to someone who can take a message for you. You also need to report unavoidable tardiness and seek approval from your supervisor for expected absence or if you need to leave work early. Link to Table of Contents.

TOBACCO USE:

Effective July 1, 2007, HSC became a tobacco-free facility. This includes all grounds and buildings. Link to Table of Contents.

VIDEOTAPING:

Cameras, audio/visual recorders and similar equipment is strictly prohibited.

However, after receiving the patients' approval and completion of appropriate paperwork, students may be required to prepare a videotaped interview of a patient for completion of assignments and grading purposes. For assistance, consult the HSC staff person assigned to provide you with supervision of your student experience. Upon consent by the patient and/or their representative, forms must be completed prior to videotaping.

A camcorder is available for use in HSC Staff Development. Contact (605) 668-3592 for assistance in reserving, set-up and use of the camcorder.

The HSC Medical Library has TV/VCR units available for viewing pre-recorded videotapes.

Link to Table of Contents.

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