 NURSING STUDENT UNIFORM NURSING STUDENT UNIFORM The nursing student uniform and the name pin bearing the South Dakota State University (SDSU) emblem are to be worn when the student is participating in clinical experiences. The student uniform and name pin are worn only for clinical experiences as authorized by the College of Nursing. There are times when, due to time factors, students need to be ready for clinical laboratory while attending other classes on campus, or participating in other activities. For infection control purposes it would be advisable to wear a lab coat when wearing the uniform on campus prior to or after clinical sessions. A. GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF STUDENT'S DRESS WOMEN The uniform consists of blue scrub pants, a white or blue polo shirt with the official SDSU emblem, a white vest and optional white lab coat. Skirts may be ordered. Pants should be no shorter than ankle length and they should not drag on the ground. Hair should be worn above the collar and off the face. Engagement and wedding rings may be worn, but may need to be removed in certain situations for safety or infection control purposes. During clinical, fingernails should be clean, short, and neatly trimmed. The definition of "short" is that when you look from the palm side of the hand you should not see the fingernail. If nail polish is worn, it must be a neutral color and cannot be chipped. No artificial nails will be allowed. Closed toe nursing shoes are to be worn with the uniform. Tennis shoes, clogs and sandals are not acceptable. A polo shirt in white or dark blue with the official SDSU emblem is also considered an appropriate uniform for use during community experiences. The student may wear the polo shirt with slacks or skirt in khaki or navy blue. The student is advised to consult the faculty member in charge of the appropriate clinical experience to use this uniform combination. MEN The uniform consists of blue scrub pants, a white or blue polo shirt with the official SDSU emblem, a white vest and optional white lab coat. Pants should be no shorter than ankle length and they should not drag on the ground. Closed toe nursing shoes are to be worn with the uniform. Tennis shoes, clogs and sandals are not acceptable. During clinical, fingernails should be clean, short, and neatly trimmed. The definition of "short" is that when you look from the palm side of the hand you should not see the fingernail. If nail polish is worn, it must be a neutral color and cannot be chipped. No artificial nails will be allowed. Wedding rings may be worn but may need to be removed in certain situations for infection control purposes. Hair should be worn above the collar and off the face. Facial hair should be cleanly shaven and beards should be neatly trimmed. A polo shirt in white or dark blue with the official SDSU emblem is also considered an appropriate uniform for use during community experiences. The student may wear the polo shirt with slacks in khaki or navy blue. The student is advised to consult the faculty member in charge on the appropriate clinical experience to use this uniform combination. B. ADAPTATIONS OF UNIFORMS Suggestions for uniform adaptations and changes for inclement weather or special laboratory activities will be the responsibility of the appropriate faculty person. Students may wear any appropriate winter outer clothing in sub-freezing weather. If the regulation uniform cannot be worn during pregnancy, the course faculty should be consulted regarding acceptable dress. Normally the vest can be adjusted to fit and worn over a standard maternity uniform. Students who wish adaptations to the uniform for cultural and/or religious reasons need to visit with the Coordinator, Nursing Student Services prior to entering the first clinical. Nursing students should wear the prescribed student uniform in agencies or hospitals where a uniform is required as part of the institution's dress code. In some situations or clinical areas, street clothes are worn. Individual faculty will make students aware of the requirements in their specific area and course. C. PURCHASING INFORMATION Order forms for new vests are distributed through Nursing Student Services. Used vests may be available on a limited quantity from graduating students, or from students who have changed majors. See Bulletin Boards in the Mary Adams Student Lounge, third floor NFA building in Brookings or in the West River Main Office. Name badges are ordered as part of admission to the major. The first name and last initial of last name is required on the name pin and the identification “SDSU Nursing Student”. Ms., Mrs., or Mr. need not precede the name. The College of Nursing, on a one-time basis provides the name badge. If the name badge is lost or damaged, the student is responsible for replacement and should contact Nursing Student Services. D. REQUIRED ACCESSORIES 1. Watch with second hand E. BODY PIERCING REGULATIONS All body piercing jewelry should be removed prior to entering the clinical setting. This includes acute, chronic and community settings. If the removal is not an option, the reason with the clinical faculty for the course. If the reason is justified, the jewelry will then be covered. Ear piercing is the exception to this rule. Small stud earrings may be worn with a limit of two per ear. No dangling earrings should be worn. The reasons this policy is enforced is to: 1) Eliminate jewelry and piercing sites as potential
sources of infection,
Reviewed: December 2004 Return to Nursing Student Handbook
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