Nursing Student Guide and Policies

1.1.1 Good Professional Character

§213.27. Good Professional Character Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Rules and Regulations Related to Nursing Education 

(a) Every individual who seeks to practice nursing in Texas must have good professional character related to the practice of nursing. This requirement includes all individuals seeking to obtain or retain a license or privilege to practice nursing in Texas.

(b) The Board defines good professional character as the integrated pattern of personal, academic, and occupational behaviors that indicate an individual is able to consistently conform his/her conduct to the requirements of the Nursing Practice Act, the Board's rules, and generally accepted standards of nursing practice. An individual who provides satisfactory evidence that he/she has not committed a violation of the Nursing Practice Act or a rule adopted by the Board is considered to have good professional character related to the practice of nursing.

(c) A determination that an individual does not have good professional character related to the practice of nursing must be based on a showing by the Board of a clear and rational connection between a violation of the Nursing Practice Act or a rule adopted by the Board and the individual's ability to effectively practice nursing. When evaluating the rationale connection between the relevant conduct and the ability to effectively practice nursing, the Board will consider the following factors:

1. whether the individual will be able to practice nursing in an autonomous role with patients/clients, their families, significant others, healthcare professionals, and members of the public who are or who may become physically, emotionally, or financially vulnerable;
2. whether the individual will be able to recognize and honor the interpersonal boundaries appropriate to any therapeutic relationship or health care setting;
3. whether the individual will be able to make appropriate judgments and decisions that could affect patients/clients and/or the public;
4. whether the individual has exhibited an inability to conform his/her behavior to the requirements of the Nursing Practice Act, Board rules and regulations, including §217.11 (relating to Standards of Nursing Practice) and §217.12 (relating to Unprofessional Conduct) of this title, and generally accepted standards of nursing practice; and
5. whether the individual will be able to promptly and fully self-disclose facts, circumstances, events, errors, and omissions, when such disclosure could enhance the health status of patients/clients or the public and/or could protect patients/clients or the public from an unnecessary risk of harm.

(d) Actions from Other Jurisdictions A certified copy of the order of the denial, suspension, or revocation or other action relating to an individual's license or privilege to practice nursing in another jurisdiction or under federal law is conclusive evidence of that action.

The faculty members support the above excerpt from the BON Rules & Regulations relating to Professional Nurse Education. Failure to demonstrate competency in the above criteria can result in a rating of "unsafe clinical performance and not meeting professional conduct standards," as defined in the syllabus of each clinical nursing course. 

1.1.2 Professional Behavior 

Any statement or behavior perceived as a grievous offense or threat to the safety of students, staff, faculty, and/or patients will be taken seriously and reported to the appropriate authorities for follow-up. Students should also report it to their instructor and/or the appropriate program director. 

Title IX infractions will be reported to the Student Affairs office, and a reporting form will be completed for Title IX. 

BSN Students 

The Texas BON requires the following before students are eligible to apply for a Texas RN license. 

Successful completion of a criminal background check through the Texas Board of Nursing is required for admission and continuation in the UT Tyler BSN Nursing Programs. Background checks are generally honored for the duration of the student's enrollment in the program if the student has not had a break in enrollment. A break in enrollment is defined as nonattendance for two or more semesters. Students with a break in enrollment for more than two semesters will be required to complete a new background check. 

If a student is arrested, pleads to a criminal charge, is convicted, or is put on deferred adjudication or probation for any criminal charge (other than a Class C misdemeanor minor traffic violation), he/she must notify the BSN Program Director and respective Site Coordinator in writing within 72 hours of the incident. The student will need to complete a petition for Declaratory Order (a formal disclosure to the Texas Board of Nursing) as soon as possible. The Declaratory Order form is on the Texas Board of Nursing website.

A student's failure to timely notify the BSN Program Director and respective Site Coordinator of an arrest may result in immediate removal or withdrawal from the program. 

If a student is found to be ineligible for clinical placement at any time during the program, the student is unable to meet the clinical learning objectives and will be dismissed pending resolution of the situation. 

In addition, Rusk State Hospital, used for mental health clinical experiences, requires that all students who could answer yes to any of the questions on the Declaratory Order must have filed the Declaratory Order prior to the beginning of the mental health clinicals. Failure to comply could lead to failure of the course and/or academic disciplinary action.

(Revised 11/3/2023)

1.2.1 Maintaining Current Student Information

The current name, address, and telephone number of each student is essential information kept in each of the School of Nursing’s (SON) three offices from admission through graduation. Students will inform the appropriate nursing office and the Registrar's Office of any change in name, address, or telephone number while enrolled in the nursing program. More information.

1.2.2 Canvas Guidelines 

Canvas is the Learning Management System at The University of Texas at Tyler. Canvas gives students access to online, hybrid, and technology-enriched courses. Faculty may use Canvas announcements and Inbox to communicate essential course information. It is the student's responsibility to remain informed of notices on the Learning Management site and campus bulletin boards. Students are expected to review these regularly. 

1.2.3. Email Guidelines

All UT Tyler students must use their UT Tyler student email to communicate with faculty and other entities on campus.

First Impressions Matter

While email exchange among friends or familiar colleagues may take on a more informal tone, a well-constructed email is an essential skill for the professional nurse. As a student representative and future graduate of the UT Tyler School of Nursing, the following recommendations should guide your professional interactions. These interactions include emails to (1) university faculty, staff, or administrators; (2) agency personnel (e.g., preceptors, clinic staff); and (3) potential employers or collaborators.

For more guidance on professional email etiquette, refer to this Business News Daily article.

Recommended Email Format when Communicating with Faculty or Staff

1. Intended Recipient(s)
   • To: name@uttyler.edu
   • someone who additionally needs to know name@uttyler.edu
   • bcc: use if you need to let someone know but do not want to either let the other parties know, or you do not want to let the others see his or her email (Use sparingly) 
2. Subject Line

   • Include the course number (e.g., NURS XXXX and section number) and a few words that highlight the focus of the email. (Example: NURS 5555.060 Request extension) 
3. Body of Email

   • Start with a Proper Salutation
   • Example: Dear Dr., Mr., Ms., or Mrs.
   • Succinctly discuss the focus of the email; if directed to a university employee, include your student number
4. Closing

   • Let the Recipient know if a response is not needed (e.g., No reply necessary)
   • End with "Sincerely, " "Thank you," or another respectful closing.
5. Include Signature Line

   • The signature template on the next page should be used in your email communications as a UT Tyler School of Nursing student
   • You will need to edit to include your personal information
   • Please consult with your advisor if you need assistance
6. Sending Email through Canvas
   • Since Canvas email (or Inbox) is an option for communicating with your course faculty, please review the above information, and ensure that at the bottom of all your emails, please include the following in the signature line:
     • Full Name
       UT Tyler Graduate (or Undergraduate) Student
       NURS XXXX. section number
       Your telephone number and email

1.2.4 Creating & Saving your UT Tyler Email Signature for Students

Part 1: Creating Your Signature

All students in UT Tyler School of Nursing need to use the same email signature for any university-related communication and when communicating with external constituents in their student role. The template is provided below, along with the steps to create your signature. You can follow the steps to update the template and then save your signature in your email program. 

• Name, Credentials

• Degree student

• School of Nursing

• email address

• Ask about my strengths: (List your top 5)

Step 1 - Line 1: Replace name and credentials with your name and any credentials you have. If you are a pre-licensure undergraduate student, you probably will not have credentials…yet.
Step 2 - Line 2: Replace "Degree" with the degree you are earning (i.e., BSN, RN-BSN, MSNEducation, MSN-Administration, MSN/MBA, MSN-FNP, DNP-Leadership, DNP-Clinical, Ph.D.)
Step 3 - Line 4: Insert your email address
Step 4 - Line 5: Replace "List your top 5" with your top 5 strengths

Once you have created your signature, you will have to save it to each device you use to send emails – your computer, tablet, phone, etc. Since there is no way this document can provide instructions for every device and email program available, we have provided you with links to Outlook on PC and Mac, but if what you need is unavailable, then search on email signature and your device or email application.

Part 2: Saving your Signature in your Email Programs

Depending on your device configuration, you may need to save the UT Tyler logo graphic separate as a picture on your device. On a PC, you would Right-click on the image above and select Save As Picture. 

• Saving your Signature in Outlook for PC 

• Saving your Signature in Outlook for Mac

• Saving your Signature in Outlook 365 online

 

1.2.5 Social Networking / Media

This policy aims to outline the privacy and confidentiality issues related to students' postings to safeguard The University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing's identity, integrity, and overall reputation to prevent confidentiality and privacy violations. 

Social Networking is any activity involving interaction with other individuals in an online environment. Social networking platforms may be effective modalities for students to connect in positive ways. However, students must be aware of and sensitive to the information and pictures they post of themselves and others. 

Using other electronic devices to record pictures, images, and other information or data that may be stored, reviewed, or shared with others immediately or at a future date is also considered social networking. This includes, but is not limited to, browsing other users' profiles, personalized web pages, and photos; reading messages sent through social networking forums; engaging in online messaging services or email that is in any way related to UT Tyler or the School of Nursing or activities conducted while in attendance at the University. 

Students are encouraged to read "A Nurse's Guide to Professional Boundaries" and "A Nurse's Guide to the Use of Social Media" on the following website, prepared by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). These guidelines are not all-inclusive; they are intended to be used as a foundation for sound decision making.  

1.2.6 Use of Texting

Students may communicate with their clinical faculty through the use of texting while in the clinical setting. When communicating with faculty regarding coursework or nonclinical issues, the student should use their UTT email accounts. 

Confidentiality and Privacy 

Violations of Confidentiality include but are not limited to:

1. Photocopying or recording patient documents, removing patient documents from the clinical site, and posting patient information on social network platforms, online blogs/vlogs, and journals.

2. Contacting patients or patients' family members through a social network platform.

3. Photographing in any clinical setting. Taking and/or posting any pictures taken within a clinical facility without the written permission of the facility or patient (even if the patient's identity is not disclosed) is a breach of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

4. Discussing or posting any patient information related to the clinical facility one is assigned on social network platforms or in a public place.

5. Using UT Tyler School of Nursing's name, logo, or other information in one's personal social networking profile. Students may post pictures where they are identified as a nursing student at SON sanctioned events, e.g., white coat ceremony, pinning ceremony, community events, group photos outside of buildings, simulation, and skills labs. Students may not post photos in uniform in personal settings such as restaurants, bars, and shopping areas. Social networking platforms, blogs/vlogs, and email are public domain.

Failure to comply with the above guidelines will result in disciplinary action, which may include dismissal from the program. Any student found in violation of the policies mentioned above
and/or any policies related to conduct unbecoming a University of Texas at Tyler student is subject to procedural disciplinary action as outlined in the UT Tyler Manual of Policies and Procedures for Student Affairs. Manual of Policies and Procedures for Student Affairs.

(Revised 8/7/2023)

The School of Nursing adheres to a model of shared governance. The purposes of the Shared Governance Council are to (1) advise the Dean and Leadership Team on activities of the School of Nursing; (2) promote democratic discussion and decision-making on academic and professional issues; (3) provide an opportunity for all members to contribute to the development and work of the School of Nursing; and (4) promote shared governance as a commitment for faculty, staff, and administration to work together to strengthen and enhance the quality and accountability of the educational process.

Student Members of Shared Governance Councils 

Each of the governing Councils will select students who are in good academic standing. Students will not be voting members of the Councils but are valued Council members to provide input from the students’ perspective. 

 

(Revised 11/3/2023)

Regardless of the academic setting, adherence to dress code standards is mandatory.

Clothing outside of the items specified in this policy may be permitted at the discretion of the nursing instructor only for designated School of Nursing (SON) special events. If a student violates the dress code and cannot obtain appropriate clothing, they may be dismissed from the school-related activity for the remainder of the day. Repeated violations will result in formal disciplinary action in accordance with School of Nursing policies. 

1.4.1  Classroom & Testing Environment
The dress code listed below is required while in the School of Nursing classrooms.

General Dress Code Policy: 

1.    Blue scrub tops and bottoms are the expectation. UT Tyler branded T-shirts, polos, sweatshirts, and hoodies may be worn with blue scrub bottoms during lecture and lab days, only. You are expected to wear full scrubs for clinicals, skills labs, and simulation.

2.    May not wear sunglasses, hats, or head coverings, with the exception of religious head coverings (should be solid natural colors only: black, blue, beige, brown, or white), in the learning environment.

3.    Students are prohibited from wearing any scrubs that are cut, torn, frayed, or that have holes in the fabric.

4.    Scrub Pants must be worn at the true waist; undergarments should not be visible. 

5.    Students must wear their photo name badge during lecture and testing environments.

Testing Environment: 

1.    Students must adhere to the general dress code policy in the testing environment.

2.    Hats, caps, and non-religious head coverings are not permitted and must be removed prior to entering the testing environment.

3.    Jackets, coats, hoodies, or any form of outerwear with pockets are prohibited.

4.    Sunglasses and non-essential accessories are not permitted.  

5.    Cell phones, smart watches, and any form of personal electronic device or text-capable devices are strictly prohibited in the testing environment.

1.4.2  White Coat Ceremony
Before the first clinical experience, undergraduate students will participate in a professional White Coat Ceremony to mark a milestone in the student's professional development. Pre- licensure students will wear the UT Tyler nursing student blue scrub uniform under the white coat. Students in the RN-BSN program may wear business attire (e.g. a black skirt, pants, or dress and a white shirt). The white coat must be an approved style from the designated vendor. The UT Tyler school patch should be permanently fixed (no safety pins) on the front left upper chest area. 

1.4.3  Pre- or Post-Clinical Experiences
Pre- or Post-Clinical Experiences in the Health Care or Community Setting: 
Students may be required to attend conferences or visit the clinical areas as part of their course requirements. Students will wear the approved lab coat, name badge, and UT Tyler school patch. Professional attire will be worn under the lab coat. The following items will be avoided: jeans, shorts, sandals, jogging/athletic suits, t-shirts, and ball caps. As an alternative, the UT Tyler nursing student uniform may be worn with a name badge. Faculty discretion may be used for particular events. 

1.4.4  Clinical Experiences: Undergraduate
Skills Laboratory, Simulation, and Clinical Experience (Includes the Community Clinicals): Students will refrain from wearing the UT Tyler nursing student blue scrub uniform to non-UT Tyler- related activities (e.g., restaurants, shopping, etc.). While wearing the UT Tyler uniform, students are expected to always be professional in appearance and behavior. Unless instructed otherwise by faculty, when attending any clinical experience, students must wear the UT Tyler nursing student uniform as outlined below.

General Dress Code Policy: 

When student uniforms are required for clinical experiences, as specified by the course, the following guidelines must be adhered to: 

1.    School patch and appropriate level of stars (1, 2, 3 or 4) corresponding to the student’s current program level should be permanently affixed (no safety pins) on the front left upper chest area of the uniform top. White lab coat requires school patch (no stars).

2.    The UT Tyler photo name badge should be worn at all times. The badge must be worn above the waist, so the name and title are visible. 

3.    If wearing a scrub dress or skirt, white or neutral hose are required.

4.    Students must wear clean black or white socks with black or white shoes.

5.    Shoes must be nonslip, closed toe and closed heel, made of solid material that can be cleaned easily and will not absorb biohazardous materials. Canvas, mesh, or clogs are not permitted. Stripes or logos on shoes must be minimal. 

6.    Gum chewing, chewing tobacco/alternatives are not allowed. 

7.    Undershirts are not required if the uniform top neckline is such that no cleavage is shown. A solid colored (white, black, or royal blue only) t-shirt, tank top, or ¾ sleeve top with no visible writing may be worn under the uniform top.  

8.    Only an approved royal blue jacket available through a designated vendor with the UT Tyler SON logo or patch on the upper left pocket area may be worn over the student's UT Tyler uniform. 

Hair, Jewelry, and Grooming Policy: 

1.    Hair must be natural colors only (black, brown, blonde, gray, or natural red tones like auburn/copper/strawberry blonde — no neon or “fire engine red”).  

2.    Hair longer than shoulder length must be pulled back and secured; very long hair must be further restrained so it does not hang forward during patient care.  

3.    Braids, dreadlocks, twists, and extensions are permitted if clean, well-maintained, and secured; must not interfere with patient care or equipment.  

4.    Hair accessories must be simple and functional (no bows, glitter, or distracting accessories).  

5.    Religious head coverings are allowed (should be solid natural colors only: black, blue, beige, brown, or white).

6.    Facial hair must be clean, neatly groomed and trimmed short. It must not interfere with the proper fit of protective mask or conflict with the policies of the clinical facility. 

7.    No strong scents (perfume, aftershave, cologne, or other scented products) for patient safety.  

8.    Wedding or engagement rings only. 

9.    Earrings: studs only. 

10.  No dangling earrings, hoops, bars, or facial/body piercings (nose, tongue, lip, etc.) for student safety.

11.  Clear spacers are permitted. 

12.  No necklaces or bracelets, except Medic Alert. 

13.  A watch with a second hand is required. 

14.  False eyelashes (strip lashes, extensions, etc.) are not permitted due to infection control risks (shedding, harboring bacteria).  Makeup should be simple and professional.

15.  Nails must be clean and neatly trimmed to fingertip length or shorter. 

16.  Artificial nails/tips, polish, gel, dip, and decorative designs are not permitted. 

Tattoo Policy:  

1.    Tattoos are allowed unless they contain explicit content, which must be covered.  

2.    Explicit includes profanity, vulgar language, sexual images/nudity, violent or graphic imagery, hate speech, discriminatory symbols, or gang related logos.  

3.    Facial and neck tattoos must be covered with professional grade makeup; coverage must be neat and natural looking.  

4.    Coverings (makeup, sleeves, bandages) must be clean and maintained to meet infection control standards.  

5.    Tattoos must be fully healed before exposure in clinical settings, and those located near patient contact areas must be kept clean and covered when required by the clinical site’s infection control policy.

Students having questions concerning adherence to the dress code should discuss this with their course instructor. Failure to comply with the above requirements may result in an unexcused clinical absence and/or negative clinical evaluation.

1.4.5  Clinical Experiences: Graduate
Skills lab, Simulation, Clinical, and OSCEs:

a.    Students will dress professionally, appropriate to the area of clinical practice and the dress code of the agency assigned.

b.    All students must wear a UT Tyler school patch on the upper left chest of the uniform jacket and lab coat.

c.     The name badge must be worn at all times, either on the jacket or the uniform, above the waist.

1.4.6  Professional Presentations/ Conferences
Students presenting at or attending professional conferences are representatives of UT Tyler and the School of Nursing. Professional attire is expected (e.g. no denim, shirts without a collar, or other casual clothes). For workshops/seminars attended by students, professional/business attire will be worn. Students will wear the approved UT Tyler SON white lab coat with the UT Tyler SON patch over professional attire, as appropriate to the conference or presentation.

1.4.7  Nursing Convocation (Pinning Ceremony)
Men will wear black pants (no jeans) and a pressed, white button-down, long-sleeved shirt with a collar and a dark-colored tie such as black, dark gray, or navy. The white lab coat with the UT Tyler patch on the left front upper chest is to be worn over the shirt and slacks.

Women will wear black slacks (no jeans or leggings) or black knee-length or longer skirts with a pressed, white long-sleeved or ¾ length shirt. Students are required to wear their white lab coat with the UT Tyler patch on the left front upper chest over the shirt and slacks/ skirt.