AORN GREATER CLEVELAND

Transcription

1 AORN OF GREATER CLEVELAND POLICY MANUAL June, 2014

2 POLICY MANUAL CONTENTS PAGE Mission and Philosophy 1 Code of Ethics 2 General Policy Statement 3 Dues, Chapter Records & Property, Officer, Board of Directors, Nominating Committee Eligibility Board of Directors 4 OFFICERS President 6 President-Elect 7 Vice President 8 Secretary 9 Treasurer 10 COMMITTEES Overall Policy for Committee Chairs 11 Committee Members/Committee Structure 12 STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CHAPTER Budget and Finance 13 Bylaws/Policy 14 Communications 15 Education 16 Fund Raising 17 Hospitality 18 Legislative 19 Membership 20 Nominating 21 Scholarship 22 Selection Criteria 23 Special Committees/AD HOC 25 APPOINTED POSITIONS Historian 25 Parliamentarian 26 POLICIES Delegate Policy 27 Point System Policy & Tally Sheet 30 Bereavement Policy 32 Guest Policy 32 Industry Policy 33 Sale of Address Labels 33 Member Incentive Policies Continuing Education Grant 34 Application 35 Vice President s Award 36 August 1977 Revised July 2003 Revised August 2011 Revised Nov 1985 Revised May 2004 Revised November 2012 Revised Nov 1988 Revised March 2005 Revised June 2013 Revised May 1990 Revised April 2006 Revised June 2014 Revised June 1994 Revised November 2006 Revised 1997 Revised June 2007 Reviewed March 1998 Revised August 2008 Revised July 2001 Revised August 2010

3 MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY A. Mission AORN is the professional organization of perioperative registered nurses that unites its members by providing education, representation, and standards for quality patient care. B. Vision AORN is the premier association essential to the professional practice of perioperative nursing that exerts global influence to advance and protect quality perioperative services. C. Value AORN is committed to excellence in support of its mission. D. Philosophy AORN, Inc., is a voluntary organization of professional registered nurses concerned with perioperative patient care. AORN believes nursing is a social institution that provides essential and significant health care services to meet evolving societal needs. The perioperative nurse uses knowledge, judgment, and skills based on the principles of physical, biological, physiological, behavioral, social and nursing science. AORN believes that nurses must be ethical, responsible and accountable for quality patient care. The nurse engaged in perioperative nursing practice provides or facilitates care to surgical or other perioperative patients. AORN believes that research should be the foundation for perioperative nursing practice. AORN believes that learning is a lifelong process and that perioperative nurses must assume responsibility for ongoing education. AORN is committed to enabling perioperative nurses to meet that responsibility. AORN believes that standards of nursing practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and appropriate resource utilization enhance perioperative nursing practice. AORN believes its activities should be structured to anticipate and meet society s perioperative health care needs. -1-

4 GREATER CLEVELAND AORN CHAPTER #3608 MEMBER CODE of ETHICS & CONDUCT Overview The Greater Cleveland Chapter of AORN #3608 requires board of directors, officers, committee members and all members to observe high standards of business and personal ethics in the conduct of their duties and responsibilities. As representatives of Chapter #3608 and the Association of perioperative Registered Nurses (herein AORN), we must practice honesty and integrity in fulfilling our responsibilities and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Purpose In accordance with the mission statement of AORN, the following Code of Ethics and Conduct applies to all members of the Association in all membership categories. Standards of Ethics and Conduct Members' professional conduct shall remain consistent with the vision, mission, and core values of AORN. Members shall conduct themselves in a manner that does not bring discredit upon AORN or its members. Members shall refrain from abusing their relationship with AORN in an improper economic, professional or other manner. Members shall treat their peers with the utmost dignity and respect, both personally and professionally. Members must feel comfortable to express their concerns, particularly with respect to ethical concerns. Officers have a responsibility to create an open and supportive environment where member concerns and questions are responded to without retaliation. Members shall not misuse information communicated or disseminated through any AORN program or media of any type, whether in person, electronic or otherwise. Members shall comply with all laws, regulations and AORN policies regarding privacy and copyright, as well as other tangible and intangible property. Vision Statement AORN will be the indispensable resource for evidence-based practice and education that establishes the standards of excellence in delivering perioperative nursing care. Mission Statement To promote safety and optimal outcomes for patients undergoing operative and other invasive procedures by providing practice support and professional development opportunities to perioperative nurses. AORN will collaborate with professional and regulatory organizations, industry leaders and other health care partners who support the mission. -2-

5 AORN Core Values Reflect what is truly important to the Association: Communication open, honest, respectful risk taking, leading edge Quality reliable, timely, accountable teamwork, inclusion, diversity Innovation creative, Collaboration AORN affords equal opportunity to all persons and does not discriminate with regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, marital status or any other legally protected status in accordance with applicable local, state and federal laws GENERAL POLICY STATEMENT DUES: 1. The amount of dues of this chapter is determined by the National Board of Directors. 2. The annual dues of National AORN are determined by the National Board of Directors and subject to ratification by the House of Delegates. 3. The annual dues of Specialty Assemblies are determined by the Specialty Assembly and National AORN and are subject to the approval of the National Board of Directors. 4. Local, National and Specialty Assembly dues are sent to Headquarters Office in accord with National Bylaws Article III, Section 5-B. CHAPTER RECORDS AND PROPERTY: Upon leaving office or chair of a committee, officers and chairs will deliver all records and other property to their successors by the next board meeting. OFFICER, BOARD OF DIRECTORS, NOMINATING COMMITTEE ELIGIBILITY: 1. Must be a member in good standing. 2. Must have attended a majority of meetings in the previous year. 3. Must have participated on one chapter committee or one chapter activity. -3-

6 BOARD OF DIRECTORS A. Composition: The Board is composed of the officers and five (5) members elected by the membership. B. Term of office: Two (2) years, except for the President and Presidentelect, which is a one (1) year term for each office. C. Relationship of the Members: The Board of Directors is to act in the best interest of the membership by conforming to the purpose for which AORN was formed as outlined in the Bylaws, the Mission and the Vision. The Board of Directors is charged with the overall responsibility of conducting the affairs of the Chapter. The Board of Directors shall: 1. Direct the business and financial affairs of the chapter and submit recommendations and/or major policy changes to the membership for approval. 2. Establish administrative policy. 3. Fill all vacancies on the Board with the exception of the office of President: a. Within one month for elected officers, b. within three months for Board members. 4. Foster growth and development of the chapter. 5. Review committee reports and determine action to be taken. 6. Approve budgetary allocations as appropriate. 7. Assist the President in the structuring of committees. 8. Approve fund raising functions. 9. Approve the purchase of supplies and equipment. 10. Approve contracts for services, such as printing and mailing of the Chapter Newsletter or special projects. 11. Function as the credentials committee in determining membership status. 12. Assist the President with liaison advising and reporting. 13. If a member becomes nonfunctional and does not resign voluntarily, the remaining Board members may request their resignation. Meetings: The purpose of meetings is to complete the responsibilities of the Board of Directors as a whole. 1. Meets as often as necessary, but at least five (5) times a year. Meetings will be open to the membership as long as space permits. 2. Executive Sessions: a. Will be used for personnel or sensitive issues as determined by the Board. b. May be requested by any Board member, with reason stated. c. Only Board members are present. At the request of the Board, individuals may be requested to attend. d. When possible, announcement of executive sessions should be on the published agenda. e. May be conducted electronically via or telephone. -4-

7 INDIVIDUAL Each Board member shall: 1. Serve on committees as assigned. Will not chair committee unless another volunteer is unavailable. 2. Be expected to attend all Board of Directors meetings, unless excused by the President. Must attend a majority of meetings to receive points for being a board member. 3. Conduct oneself in a professional manner, so as to reflect prestige upon the chapter. 4. Keep informed on the activities of the chapter and National AORN. 5. Arrive promptly for meetings and come prepared to discuss item of business. 6. Accept and complete special assignments as made by the President. 7. Be knowledgeable of chapter and National Bylaws. -5-

8 OFFICERS OF THE BOARD Officers of the Board are in the service of the Board. As such, they are bound by Board wishes and by limits of Board authority. PRESIDENT: Assures the integrity of Board process including effectiveness of meeting and the Board s adherence to its own rules. Serves as chair of the Board. The presidential succession, in case of temporary absence of the President, is the Vice President, the Treasurer, and the Secretary. The President shall: 1. Preside at all meetings of the Association and Board of Directors. 2. Be a member, ex-officio, of all committees. 3. Serve as the Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee. 4. Represent the Association at meetings of other organizations or designate an alternate, usually the Vice President. 5. Appoint chairs of all standing and special committees after consultation with the Board of Directors. 6. Offer guidance to all committees and their activities. 7. Terminate committee appointments when such appointees are nonproductive. 8. Direct the preparation of, and signs when applicable all official communications. 9. Speak on behalf of the Board of Directors on all official matters. 10. Keep Board and membership totally informed of all Association activities as received from National AORN. 11. Respond promptly to all communications from National AORN. 12. Be in close contact with Vice President at all times to keep him/her informed of ongoing activates of chapter and National AORN. 13. Appoint tellers committee for elections. 14. Prepare agenda for business meetings of the Chapter and Board meetings. 15. Keep attendance record for all Board meetings to be turned in to the Vice President for Point System records as ascribed in Committee Chair responsibilities. 16. Be one of the two (2) prepaid delegates to Ohio Council of peri- Operative Registered Nurses. 17. Serve as the Advisor and Board liaison to the Nominating Committee the year following term of office, making certain that the election slate is completed within ascribed timelines as stated in the Policy manual on page Shall notify Vice President of the allotted number of delegates/ alternates to the annual AORN Congress. -6-

9 PRESIDENT ELECT Orients to duties and responsibilities of the office of President by observing, assisting, and consulting with the President. Assumes the office of President for a period of one year immediately following the term as President Elect. Is an active member of the Chapter and has served on the Board of Directors for one term. Is responsible to the Board for reporting on and noting inconsistencies of Board actions related to current bylaws and policies. The President Elect shall: 1. Serve as a member of the Board of Directors assuming responsibilities as delegated by the President, or Board of Directors. 2. Serve as a member, ex-officio, without a vote, on standing and special committees. 3. Act as a representative of the President in any delegated capacity. 4. Act as Parliamentarian when Parliamentarian is not present. 5. Serve as Chair of annual Congress delegation a. Send list of the delegates/alternates, and name of the Delegate Chair, to Headquarters within ascribed deadline. 6. Summarize highlights of Board meetings in subsequent Chapter newsletter. 7. Plan the June installation dinner meeting - a. Choose location, menu, installing officer. b. Choose theme a maximum budget of $ is allotted for expenses (i.e. flowers, candles, etc.) c. Purchase gift for outgoing President Budget of $50.00 allotted d. Submit all information to the communications committee 60 days in advance. 8. Be the Chapter Representative at the National Leadership Conference. Reimbursement will include up to $ for airfare, the registration fee, and two nights at the assigned hotel. -7-

10 VICE PRESIDENT Acts in the absence of the President. The Vice President shall: 1. Perform the duties of the President in case of the President s absence or inability to act. 2. Perform such duties as may be delegated by the President. 3. Be responsible for keeping a record of accumulated member points a. determine recipient of Congress Incentive Award and present at the January dinner meeting; b. determine recipient of the Vice President s Award and present at the Installation banquet. 4. Send officer eligibility report to the Nominating Committee in November. 5. Be responsible for determining annual congress delegates, after point sheets have been tallied. -8-

11 SECRETARY Attests formally to the legitimacy of Board documents by affixing his/her signature. The Secretary is also responsible to the Board for reporting on and noting any inconsistencies of Board actions related to current bylaws and policies. The Secretary shall: 1. Assure that records are maintained of the proceedings of all business meetings of the Chapter and the Board of Directors for the current and past seven years. 2. If unable to attend a Board or membership meeting, will inform the president prior to the meeting and make arrangements for someone to take minutes. 3. Receive and maintain all correspondence. 4. Maintain records of communications sent to committees from the Board of Directors. 5. At the direction of the President, write correspondence for the Chapter. 6. At Chapter business and Board of Director meetings: a. read correspondence, b. record minutes of meeting. 7. Provide members of the Board of Directors with a copy of the Board of Directors meeting minutes before the next chapter meeting. 8. Prepare a copy of all business and Board meeting minutes for distribution at the following meeting. 9. Provide a copy of the chapter meeting minutes to the Website coordinator prior to the end of the month. 10. Write thank you notes to special guests at Chapter meetings. 11. Inform National AORN of the death of a member. -9-

12 TREASURER The Treasurer manages the financial affairs of the Chapter. The membership elects the Treasurer for a term of two years to serve with the Board of Directors in conducting the affairs of the Chapter. This officer should be knowledgeable of basic accounting and banking principles. The Treasurer s files should contain: - Copy of Chapter and National Bylaws - Copy of budget (current and special projects) as adopted by the Chapter - Receipt book to acknowledge money received - Check book to disburse funds as authorized - Treasurer s books in which to keep the financial records - Current roster of chapter members - Tax exempt status and number The Treasurer shall: 1. Prepare annual statement of income and expenses based on chapter s fiscal year of July 1 through June 30 th for use by the Budget & Finance Committee in preparing the annual budget. 2. Prepare a financial statement for presentation at each chapter business meeting and/or Board meeting. 3. Maintain the Chapter checking account. 4. Pay all bills, sign all checks, and oversee additional transactions. (All bills must be accompanied with an itemized and signed statement of expenditures and receipts.) 5. Maintain income records for the Chapter. 6. Monitor the Chapter s financial status. Notify President of any unusual requests for funds. 7. Maintain accurate Chapter accounting records. 8. Oversee the distribution of the Education Grants. (See Description in Policy Manual) 9. Distribute designated funds to Congress Delegates as determined by chapter policy.(each delegate must provide copies of personal receipts that total the amount of funding received from the chapter to receive final payment. 10. Ensure that records are audited before turning over to the newly elected Treasurer. The audit will be conducted by at least three of the five members of the Budget & Finance Committee. 11. Handle and submit any IRS tax forms. -10-

13 OVERALL POLICY FOR COMMITTEES: COMMITTEE CHAIR: 1. Each Committee must have a minimum of two (2) meetings annually with the exception of the Scholarship Committee if there are no applications. 2. Prepares an agenda for committee meetings. 3. Presides at committee meetings/and or presents Committee report. 4. Assures that minutes are taken at all committee meetings and distributed to the members. 5. Shall provide a monthly report at membership meeting and submits written reports for newsletter when appropriate. 6. Maintains committee records in a notebook. 7. Submits an annual written report to the Chapter President two weeks before the June meeting. This report should summarize the committee s progress, accomplishments, expenditures, and recommendations. 8. Submits a list of members attending each committee meeting to the Vice President for point system records. Must be turned in by the October meeting. METHOD OF FUNCTIONING: 1. If you are unable to get committee cooperation, please report immediately to the Board of Directors for advice. 2. If you, as chair, feel unable to function after agreeing to serve, submit your resignation, in writing, to the President in order that the President can replace you immediately. a. If the chair is non-functional the Board of Directors may request a hearing with the Chair and will then advise, help or replace the chair, as needed. 3. If you, as chair, are unable to attend a chapter meeting, you are to arrange for someone from the committee to give the monthly report. 4. You are to present a verbal report to the membership, during and at the completion of, any project. 5. Will maintain a balance sheet for any projects performed on behalf of the chapter. 6. Expenditures of $ or more must be approved in advance by the Board of Directors. -11-

14 COMMITTEE MEMBER 1. Supports the purpose and goals of the committee and the Chapter. 2. Attends committee meetings as scheduled by the chair. 3. Participates in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of projects/work of the committee. COMMITTEE STRUCTURE The following committees will meet jointly in order to expedite business: Communication Membership Hospitality Legislative Fund Raising Outreach The following committees will meet individually: Budget & Finance Bylaws & Policy Education Scholarship Nominating Ad Hoc Committees -12-

15 BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Budget and Finance Committee is a standing committee of the chapter and is composed of the President, President-Elect, Past President, Treasurer and one Board of Directors member appointed by the President. PURPOSE: The Budget and Finance Committee establishes monetary objectives and limitations for the financial operation of the organization and monitors all accounts. 1. Prepares the annual budget and submits to the Board of Directors for approval. 2. Is available to assist the treasurer in preparing the books for audit. 3. Conducts the chapter Treasury audit as indicated by policy. -13-

16 BYLAWS AND POLICY COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Bylaws and Policy Committee is a standing committee of the chapter. The chair shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) other members shall be selected to serve on the committee. 1. Annually review the bylaws and recommend amendments to insure consistency with National AORN. 2. Prepare amendments which are considered advisable to facilitate the work and best interests of the chapter and submit same to the Board of Directors for consideration and approval. 3. Submit final copy of Bylaws, as revised, for distribution to the membership. 4. Send amended Bylaws to National AORN, after approval by the membership. Two (2) copies are to be sent. 5. Annually review the Policy Manual and submit recommendations for change to the Board of Directors. METHOD OF FUNCTIONING: 1. The Chair shall present proposed bylaws amendments to the membership thirty(30) days prior to voting. This may be done either by mail or at a regular meeting. 2. The chair will present proposed policy changes to the Board for approval and present changes at a regular Chapter meeting. 3. The Vice President shall be an ex-officio member and serve as a liaison between the committee and the Board of Directors. -14-

17 COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Communications Committee is a standing committee of the Chapter and will meet as part of the joint committee structure. The chair shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) other members shall be selected to serve on the committee. PURPOSE: The purpose is to coordinate the public information programs about the local AORN and to provide the membership of the chapter with current information regarding the activities of the Chapter. 1. Solicit an established deadline for manuscripts and material for publication in the Chapter Newsletter/Website. 2. Follow AORN Publication Chapter Newsletter Guide. 3. Maintain an up-to-date mailing list including address,telephone numbers and Prepare labels for mailing. 5. Prepare and submit press release items for publication in local news media with the objective of image enhancement of the Perioperative nurse. 6. Promote interest in Chapter programs through the newsletter and website. 7. Assist other committees with publicity needs. 8. Printing will be handled at the discretion of the committee with approval by the Board of Directors. -15-

18 EDUCATION COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Education Committee is a standing committee of the Chapter. A chair is appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) other members shall be selected to serve on the committee. Workshops are separate educational offerings from Chapter meetings. PURPOSE: The purpose is to plan and develop educational programs and workshops to provide continuing education for the chapter membership. 1. Insure that all offerings planned reflect the philosophy and objectives of AORN. 2. Submit a tentative schedule of offerings for Board approval. 3. Obtain contact hours for each offering, preferably through AORN. 4. Assure necessary audiovisual equipment is available for the speaker. 5. Incorporate the Communications Committee in planning for publicity for all endeavors. 6. Provide appropriate information to treasurer regarding honorarium for speaker. If money is declined, it will be donated to National AORN Foundation. 7. Send thank you notes to all speakers. -16-

19 FUND RAISING DEFINITION: The Fund Raising Committee is a standing committee of the Chapter and will meet as part of the joint committee structure. The chair shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) other members shall be selected to serve on the committee. PURPOSE: The purpose is to organize fund raising projects to support the needs of the Chapter. 1. Annually recommend fund raising activities to the Board of Directors. 2. Solicit members to participate in the execution of the fund raising activities. 3. Promote fund raising activities. 4. Collect all monies from fund raising activities, turning same over to the Chapter Treasurer as soon as possible. -17-

20 HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Hospitality Committee is a standing committee of the Chapter and will meet as part of the joint committee structure. The chair shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) other members shall be selected to serve on the committee as needed. PURPOSE: The purpose is to plan and implement the social/networking time at chapter meetings. 1. Determine if directional signs are needed and post if necessary. 2. Plan the social/networking time, assist and make arrangements for same (i.e. serving, tidying up). 3. Provide refreshment at membership meetings as approved by the Board. The annual expense shall not exceed approved budget monies. -18-

21 LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Legislative Committee is a standing committee of the Chapter and will meet as part of the joint committee structure. The chair shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) other members shall be selected to serve on the Legislative Committee. PURPOSE: The purpose is to inform the membership of current political and legislative activities occurring at the local, state and National levels relating to perioperative and other pertinent health care issues. 1. Members of this committee shall maintain current knowledge of: a. Political issues and legislation relating to health care and nursing at the local, state and national levels. b. Political candidates and their history of support for nursing and/or health care issues. c. Legislation occurring within AORN and other nursing organizations that may affect perioperative nursing practice. d. Issues proposed in related health care organizations (AMA, AHA, etc.) that may have an effect on the nursing profession. 2. Report to membership to apprise them of important issues, changes and bills coming to vote. 3. The chair of the committee and the chapter President will serve as the two (2) prepaid delegates to the Ohio Council of perioperative Registered Nurses. METHOD OF FUNCTIONING: 1. The Chair shall determine which members of the committee have access to publications, political information, candidates or officials and other nursing/health care organizations. 2. Members will be encouraged to attend the Ohio Council of peri-operative Registered Nurses meeting to collect information pertinent to peri-operative Nursing. 3. A report will be presented at each monthly meeting. -19-

22 MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Membership Committee is a standing committee of the Chapter and will meet as part of the joint committee structure. The chair shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. At least two (2) members shall be selected to serve on the committee. PURPOSE: The purpose is to promote and maintain growth of the chapter and to welcome members, guest, participants and speakers at meetings and workshops. 1. Arrive prior to the social/networking time. Set up registration table near the entrance. 2. Provide sign in log to record attendance of members and guests. 3. Provide nametags. 4. Greet members and guests. Alert President to presence of guests and new members. 5. Report total attendance when called upon by the President. Introduce guests. 6. At close of meeting, give sign in log to the Vice President to update records. 7. Contact those who have allowed membership to lapse and send out membership applications. 8. Send welcoming communication to new members. 9. Provide a list of new members to the newsletter editor prior to each publication. -20-

23 NOMINATING COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Nominating Committee is an elected committee of the Chapter and shall be elected in the manner provided in the Bylaws. The Chair shall be selected annually by the Nominating Committee members. The current Past President will serve as an ex-officio member of this committee. PURPOSE: The purpose is to prepare a slate of qualified candidates for the elected offices/positions in the Chapter. 1. Select qualified candidates for officers, board members and the nominating committee, based on the point system and credentials provided by the vice-president. 2. Present a ballot to the membership for officers, board members and nominating committee at the March meeting, providing for nominations from the floor. 3. Provide final slate to the Communications committee for publication. 4. Validate current membership status of all members at the time of Elections (May meeting). 5. Prepare and distribute the ballots at the May meeting. 5. Will act as the Teller s committee for all elections. METHOD OF FUNCTIONING: 1. Advise candidates of the demands of the office they seek prior to their commitment to serve by providing appropriate job descriptions. 2. Obtain a signed willingness-to-serve form from all candidates for the specific office/position they are seeking. 3. Following election, results will be given to the President to announce and to the Secretary for permanent record. -21-

24 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE DEFINITION: The Scholarship committee is a standing committee of the Chapter. The Committee will consist of a chair, most recent recipient and at least one volunteer. The Chair will be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. These scholarships are in memory Of C.Joan Gowin, Christine Allen-Dona Martin Laing. These scholarships are the: 1. C. Joan Gowin ($500)presented at the June dinner meeting 2. Christine Allen-Dona Martin Laing ($500) presented at the June dinner meeting 3. Entry Level Student Nurse ($1000) presented at the January meeting PURPOSE: The purpose is to determine the annual recipients of the three scholarships. See applications for further guidelines. CHAIR shall: 1. Process the applicants packets and verify completeness according to specified guidelines. See Scholarship Application. 2. Assign an identification number for confidentiality. 3. Verify eligibility criteria as listed below. 4. Initiate criterion scoring sheets. 5. Be responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of the applicants. The recipients will remain confidential until the award is presented. 6. Plan a committee meeting in December for the Entry Level Student Nurse Scholarship recipient. 7. Plan a Committee meeting in May for the C. Joan Gowin and Christine Allen-Dona Martin Laing Scholarship recipients. 8. Contact each applicant and follow up with a letter of acceptance or rejection for the scholarships. 9. Present the scholarships at the June dinner meeting. 10. Present the scholarship for the student nurse at the January meeting. COMMITTEE shall: 1. Encourage the membership to use the scholarship funds for further educational endeavors. 2. Publish information regarding availability of scholarship funds along with the chair s name and telephone number for contact purposes in the chapter newsletter and on the website. 3. Review general criteria for awarding scholarships to members to insure that applicants meet all criteria. 4. Review scoring sheets and personal statements by identification number only. 5. Reach consensus on the recipients with the highest criterion scores. 6. Not access names of the applicants. -22-

25 SELECTION CRITERIA: A. Eligibility for C.Joan Gowin and Christine Allen-Donna Martin Laing Scholarships: 1. Must be a member of the Greater Cleveland Chapter of AORN (3608). 2. Must have twelve (12) consecutive months of AORN membership immediately prior to application for the scholarship. 3. Must have attended a majority of meetings from May 1 to April 30 in the previous year. 4. Recipients cannot receive the same scholarship in successive years unless there are no other applicants. 5. Eligibility related to intended program of study: a. C Joan Gowin Scholarship: Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) Currently an RN going toward any advanced Nursing degree b. Allen-Laing Scholarship: Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) or higher degree in Nursing Any advanced degree in Nursing, education or management/business that supports perioperative nursing 6. Grade point average of 3.0 from a college or institution of higher education. 7. Must meet all eligibility requirements, without exception. 8. All scholarship applications are sent directly to the Chair of the committee. 9. Grievances regarding eligibility may be presented to the Board of Directors. 10. At the end of the selection process, packets will be returned to non-recipients. B. Eligibility for the Entry Level Student Nurse Scholarship: 1. Resident of Cuyahoga, Geauga, or Lake County. 2. Be enrolled full-time in an accredited nursing program. 3. A minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average in required nursing Courses. A current official transcript must be included in application. 4. A letter of recommendation from a nursing instructor. 5. Complete an word typed essay answering the following questions. Applicants should compose a professional paper using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. Margins should be 1 inch, papers should be double spaced, and the font should be no smaller than size 12. o What is your philosophy of nursing? o Describe your understanding of the role of the perioperative registered nurse. o How will you use your education for the advancement of nursing? o Include pertinent information related to professional organizations and community service. -23-

26 C. Deadlines for Scholarship Applications: 1. For the C. Joan Gowin and Christine Allen-Dona Martin-Laing Scholarship, deadline is May 1 st. 2. For the Entry Level Student Nurse Scholarship, deadline is December 1 st. -24-

27 SPECIAL COMMITTEES/AD HOC Special committees may be appointed by the President and cease to exist when the purpose for which they were created is complete. APPOINTED POSITIONS HISTORIAN DEFINITION: The Historian shall be appointed annually by the President after consultation with the Board of Directors. PURPOSE: The Historian shall keep a record of the history of the Greater Cleveland Chapter of AORN. 1. In cooperation with the Newsletter/Website Committee, obtain all press clippings, chapter pictures and other items of interest regarding chapter activities. 2. Place clippings, pictures, etc. in books of permanent record. 3. Solicit new items from chapter members. 4. Display permanent record books at the January and June Chapter functions and at the request of the President. 5. Keep the camera belonging to the Chapter, to be used at organizational functions. 6. Return all materials to the President upon completion of the appointed term. -25-

28 PARLIAMENTARIAN DEFINITION: The Parliamentarian is a member of the Chapter, appointed annually by the President, after consultation with the Board of Directors. The Parliamentarian shall be knowledgeable in parliamentary procedure, rules and/or debate and have a full understanding of the Bylaws and Policies of the Chapter. PURPOSE: The Parliamentarian is to provide advice on parliamentary procedure in order to protect the rights of all the membership and to assist the President in maintaining order during chapter meetings. The Parliamentarian shall advise the President at all meetings, as necessary, so that parliamentary procedure is based on the regards for the rights of: 1. The minority, especially a strong minority of greater than one-third; 2. The majority; 3. Individual members; 4. Absentees; 5. All these together, within the chapters total membership. METHOD OF FUNCTIONING: 1. Be present at all Chapter business meetings. 2. Have a current copy of the Chapter Bylaws and Policy Manual on hand. 3. Have a current copy of the National Bylaws on hand. 4. Have a recent copy of Robert s Rules of Order on hand. 5. Serve on the Bylaws and Policy Committee. -26-

29 DELEGATE POLICY APPOINTMENT OF DELEGATES: 1. Delegate eligibility is to be determined by point sheet tally prior to the November chapter meeting. 2. A full complement of delegates will be selected. 3. Credentials include: a. A chapter or retired member of the chapter. b. Record of attendance at five(5) chapter meetings during the previous fiscal year. c. Active participation on one chapter committee or one chapter activity. d. Point sheet must be turned in no later than the October Chapter meeting. 4. The Vice President will determine willingness to attend Congress as a chapter delegate. 5. In the event that the number of chapter members eligible exceeds the number of allotted delegates, selection shall be based on highest point totals, and then by lot should the need arise. 6. Delegates will be announced at the January chapter meeting. 7. The final slate of delegates will be sent to National AORN. 8. The slate of delegates will be published in the Spring newsletter. 9. In the event a full complement cannot be filled by qualified delegates, the remaining seats will be filled using the following criteria: a. A Greater Cleveland chapter member who has attended a minority of meetings in the previous fiscal year (4, 3, 2, etc) b. must have participated in at least one chapter activity or served on one chapter committee, c. must be willing to accept responsibility for all National delegate duties required at Congress, d. no compensation will be issued from the chapter treasury. 10. In the event that the full complement still cannot be filled, a. Ohio Council members who have met their chapter s delegate criteria will be considered. Choice will be by lot if necessary. b. Individuals selected must be willing to accept the responsibility for all National delegate duties at Congress, c. no compensation will be issued from the greater Cleveland chapter treasury, d. If Delegate responsibilities are not fulfilled, individual(s) will not be eligible to be a Greater Cleveland chapter delegate in the future. -27-

30 POLICY STATEMENT: + A delegate will receive compensation by the chapter, as determined by chapter Policy (see below). + A delegate shall reimburse the chapter the full amount of compensation if for any reason they are unable to represent the chapter at Congress or they do not perform the responsibilities outlined for the role. + If a delegate obtains FULL Congress funding from another source, the money allotted by the chapter will be returned to the chapter. RATIONALE: Providing funding to delegates/alternates is justified because the role requires a time commitment at Congress and the Chapter would not have representation if members did not make this commitment. FUNDING FROM THE CHAPTER: 1. The chapter will fund delegates to Congress as designated by the Board of Directors in the following manner: a. each delegate will receive the same amount; b. funds used shall not exceed ½ of the total monies in the treasury, to the maximum of $ per delegate.; c. the chapter treasury shall not be depleted to less than $ in order to fund delegates; d. the gross amount available is to be divided by the total number of delegates; 1. Funding must be returned to the chapter if responsibilities are not fulfilled. 2. The chapter shall provide a check, drawn for ½ the amount calculated, to each delegate prior to Congress. 3. The remaining ½, or percentage of total funding, will be paid upon completion of delegate responsibilities. 4. Each delegate responsibility will be equally weighted in determining amount to be reimbursed. 5. Reimbursable items for delegates are limited to registration, travel expenses and hotel accommodations only. Receipts turned in to the Treasurer, must identify the delegate name as the recipient of the services. DELEGATES WHO FAIL TO MEET ALL CHAPTER REQUIREMENTS WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO BE A DELEGATE THE FOLLOWING YEAR. DELEGATES MAY SEEK (EXCUSAL)APPROVAL AT THE BOARD MEETING FOLLOWING CONGRESS. -28-

31 REQUIRED CHAPTER DELEGATE 1. All House of Delegate Meetings 2. Forums/Town meetings related to AORN business. 3. Candidates speeches. 4. Voting 5. Writing of Delegate report a. upon return from Congress, each delegate/alternate will write a review of an educational session and submit to the Delegate chair. Article must be turned in no later than the May chapter meeting following Congress. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DELEGATE CHAIR: The chair should be the President-elect. In the event the President-elect is unable to serve, the chair will be appointed by the Board of Directors. Prior to Congress: a. Provide delegates with required chapter responsibilities, b. Make arrangements for purchase of a corsage/boutonniere for the President, or designee. At Congress: a. Take attendance at required sessions and be sure each delegate votes; b. Make any status changes promptly; c. Report attendance to the State recorder at House of Delegate sessions; d. Confer with each delegate and make a list of the articles they will write for the newsletter. After Congress: a. Report to the chapter membership, the results of the election and any issues that came before the House. b. Communicate with the President before the next Board meeting. Report about attendance or any changes in delegate status. c. Receive delegate reports and forward to the Communications Chair to be posted on the website. d. Report to the Treasurer that all delegate responsibilities have been fulfilled. POINT SYSTEM POLICY The following tally sheet will be used in determining member eligibility for Chapter officers and Congress delegates. -29-

32 Point System for the Greater Cleveland Chapter of AORN Chapter Office Eligibility and Congress Delegates Fiscal year July 1, to June 30, Before being considered for chapter office eligibility or being a Congress Delegate, five (5) Greater Cleveland AORN Chapter Business Meetings must have been attended. Points will only be given for attendance at Chapter Business Meetings. Points for business meetings will not be given if more than 10 minutes late for the meeting. Please use this form to determine your points. Fill in and total your points. Submit your completed form to the Vice President by the October Chapter meeting. Chapter Business Meetings Attended: (one point per meeting + bonus points) Total Points 9 meetings + 4 bonus points Please check the month of Meeting/s attended: Chapter 8 meetings + 3 bonus points Meetings 7 meetings + 2 bonus points September October November 6 meetings + 1 bonus point January February March 5 meetings + 0 bonus points April May June Chapter Officer Point Values: Officer Points President 5 Vice President 3 Treasurer 3 President-elect 3 Secretary 3 Board of Directors 3 Chapter Committees Chair 4 Co-chair 3 (If no individual chair) Member 2 Committee Chairs: Committee Budget/Finance Education Legislative Outreach Chair Points Bylaws/Policy Fund Raising Membership Scholarship Communication Hospitality Nominating Ad Hoc Committee Membership: - You must attend 50% of committee meetings in order to be considered a member of a committee and to receive the corresponding points Committee Member Points Individual Committees: Joint Committee Budget/Finance (includes Communication Bylaws/Policy Fund Raising, Hospitality, Education Legislative, Outreach and Nominating Membership) Scholarship Ad Hoc Name: OVER -30-

33 Additional Chapter Points: Additional Historian 2 Chapter Activity (i.e. Baskets) 1 each Chapter Points Parliamentarian 2 (must be approved by BOD) Chapter Workshop 1 Speaker at Greater Cleveland AORN Chapter sponsored educational activity: 1 State Level: Ohio Council of perioperative Registered Nurses (must attend 2 of the 3 meetings) (Total of 3 meetings per year) Speaker Points State Level Points Officer 3 Please list meetings attended: Member 2 National Level: National Board of Directors 3 Level Points Nominating Committee 2 National Committee Chair/Member 2 Specialty Assembly Coordinating Council 2 Please list Assemblies: Specialty Assembly Member 1 Publication/Congress Poster Submission: One point for each publication/poster - maximum of 4 (Please list title/s and date/s) Publication Points Certification: Current CNOR 3 (Date of expiration ) Certification Current CRNFA 3 (Date of expiration ) Points (do not also get CNOR points) Date: TOTAL POINTS Name: -31-

34 BEREAVEMENT POLICY The Chapter will contribute up to $ in honor of a deceased member only. This contribution can include, but not be inclusive of, any charitable organization (s) identified in the member s obituary, flowers, and/or AORN Foundation. GUEST POLICY DEFINITION: Any invited person who is not currently a member of the AORN of Greater Cleveland. GUIDELINES: 1. A guest may not participate in voting during the business meeting. 2. The Membership Committee shall keep a record of guest s names, employment affiliation and professional status. 3. Guests shall be introduced during the regular business meeting. 4. Children are not allowed. CONTACT HOUR OFFERINGS: 1. Fees are waived for students and first time guests. 2. AORN members from another chapter will pay a $5.00 fee to receive contact hours for education programs presented at monthly meetings. 3. Any non-member of AORN will pay $7.00 to receive contact hours for education programs presented at monthly meetings. 4. Fees will be paid at the registration desk. -32-

35 INDUSTRY POLICY DEFINITION: To provide guidelines to the organization in cooperating with industry in educational offerings. PURPOSE: The purpose of the guidelines are to protect AORN interests and reputation. To assure equitable and fair treatment of AORN and industry in cooperative efforts. GUIDELINES: 1. The AORN Chapter of Greater Cleveland will consider cooperative offerings in collaboration with industry. 2. The Chapter will consider offerings based upon educational needs of the membership and applicability of the program. 3. Place, time, program content, faculty, refreshments and meal arrangements will be made cooperatively between AORN and the industrial co-sponsor. These arrangements will be put in a written agreement if the educational offering is a Greater Cleveland AORN workshop with shared expenses. a. This agreement shall be signed by the AORN Workshop Chair and the designated industrial representative, b. The Board of Directors must approve arrangements, c. The workshop chair is responsible for reporting proposed changes to the Board of Directors, d. NO CHANGES may be made without approval of both parties, e. Changes must be made in writing. 4. Mailing labels MAY NOT be sold to industry. 5. Industrial representatives may sponsor refreshments before meetings. SALE OF ADDRESS LABELS Address labels for the Greater Cleveland Chapter of AORN (3608) may be sold to other organizations for educational programs. If a request is made, there will be a fee of $ The labels will be printed and mailed to the recipient only after the Treasurer has received the fee. -33-

36 MEMBER INCENTIVE POLICIES CONTINUING EDUCATION GRANT PURPOSE: To provide members with monies toward attendance at seminars/meetings based on the criteria as outlined below. AWARD: $ will be budgeted each calendar year to this fund. Individual awards will be limited to $ ELIGIBILITY: Applicants shall: 1. Be current members of the Greater Cleveland Chapter of AORN. 2. Have attended four (4) of the nine (9) business meetings during the year. 3. Active participation on one chapter committee or one chapter activity. 4. Be limited to applying every other year. CRITERIA: 1. The meeting/seminar will meet the qualifications approved by the American Nurses Credentialing Center s Commission on Accreditation (ANCC). 2. Recipient may use the money for registration or room and board. 3. A non-delegate to the Annual AORN Congress may apply for the funding. 4. Recipient must provide proof of attendance to the Treasurer. 5. Treasurer will award the money based on completion of all eligibility criteria. 6. If recipient is unable to attend, money will be repaid to the Chapter within 30 days. -34-

37 Continuing Education Grant Application AORN Greater Cleveland Chapter Name:. AORN Membership #:. Address:. Phone:.. Please list the dates of the AORN Meetings you have attended in the past year: Please list the AORN committee/s with which you have been involved in the past year: Name and location of the activity for which funds are being requested. (Please attach a copy of the registration material with the fee listed) Other anticipated reimbursable expenses: (i.e.: room/ meals) Amount being requested (Not to exceed $200.00) For Treasurer s Use: Membership current Meeting attendance verified Committee involvement verified Function appropriate for funding -35-

38 VICE PRESIDENT S AWARD AWARD: Membership renewal voucher awarded for the most non-officer, non-delegate points accumulated during the period of July 1 to June 30 of the previous year. Award is presented annually by the Vice President, or designee, at the June Installation dinner. ELIGIBILITY: 1. Current member. 2. Not a consecutive event winner, including Membership Raffle. 3. Ties are broken by lot. 4. May be a chair or co-chair of a standing or ad hoc committee of the chapter. CRITERIA: 1. Treasurer will draft the appropriate vouchers. 2. May be notified in advance at the discretion of the Vice President. -36-