Section IV
Student Policies and Responsibilities

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to providing equitable access to our programs for students with disabilities (e.g., psychological, attentional, learning, chronic health, sensory, and physical).

To engage in a confidential conversation about the process for requesting reasonable accommodations in the classroom and clinical settings please contact The Office of Disability, Access, and Inclusion at: [email protected] or begin the process via the Office & Disability Access & Inclusion website. Accommodations are not provided retroactively; therefore, students are encouraged to begin this process early.

CU College of Nursing recognizes that students admitted to one or more of its degree programs have both rights and responsibilities. Students are encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and engage in a sustained and independent search for truth. The freedom of faculty members to teach and the freedom of students to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom.

Students should exercise their freedoms in a responsible manner. This institution has a duty to develop policies and procedures, which provide and safeguard students' freedom to learn. The student body has clearly defined means to, and is encouraged to, participate in the formulation and application of institutional policy affecting academic and student affairs, i.e., through the CU College of Nursing's Student Affairs Committee (SAC), the CU AMC Student Senate, CU College of Nursing student organization membership, or representation on other CU College of Nursing committees.

The institution has an obligation to clarify those standards of behavior, e.g., Professional Role Behaviors (PRB) or the Student Honor and Conduct Code (SHCC), which it considers essential to its educational mission, its community life, or its objectives and philosophy.

Student Rights

• Under no circumstances will a student be denied admission to this institution for any factor of bias or discrimination including on the basis of race, creed, gender, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, political beliefs, economic status, geographic background, disabilities or other special needs, sexual orientation, or marital status.
• Students have protection through orderly procedures (e.g., appeal/petition procedure, SAC review) against prejudice or capricious academic evaluation.
• Information about student views, beliefs, political ideation, or sexual orientation that instructors acquire in the course of their work or otherwise are considered confidential and are not to be released without the knowledge and consent of the student or used as a basis of evaluation.
• Students have the right to have a responsible voice in curricular issues and may have a representative on the SAC, Undergraduate, and Graduate Curriculum and Evaluation Committees.
• Students and student organizations are free to examine and discuss all questions of interest to them, to express opinions publicly and privately, and to invite and to hear any person of their own choosing for furthering their education.
• Students have the right to belong or refuse to belong to any organization of their choice.
• Students have the right to personal privacy to the extent that the welfare and property of others are respected.

Student Responsibilities

Just as students enjoy rights/freedoms as citizens and members of an academic community, students are also responsible for being aware of their obligations as citizens of CU College of Nursing, the greater Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC) community, and the even-greater CU community.

• Students are free to take reasoned exceptions to the data or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion, but they are responsible for learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled.
• While students have the protection of due process (e.g., appeal/petition procedure, SAC review), they are responsible for maintaining the standards of academic and clinical/internship performance established for each course in which they are enrolled.
• Disciplinary proceedings should be instituted only for violations of standards of conduct formulated with significant student participation and published in advance through such means as this Student Handbook or other generally available set of institutional regulations. It is the responsibility of the student to know those regulations. This Student Handbook, outlining appeal/petition procedures and the Student Honor and Conduct Codes (SHCC), and Professional Role Behaviors (PRB) is available to all students in either printed or electronic formats.
• While adequate safety precautions (e.g., adequate lighting, locks, security for electronic communications, and other safety measures as deemed necessary) will be provided by CU College of Nursing, students must also assume responsibility for their personal safety by utilizing shuttle and escort services, their powers of observation, and common sense when on campus, using technology, or in clinical settings.
• Students are responsible for taking care of both their personal physical and mental health. CU provides basic health insurance that includes coverage for both physical and mental health. All students enrolled for one-or-more credit hours in a degree program and/or in certain approved certificate-seeking programs are automatically enrolled in this Student Health Insurance plan unless a successful insurance waiver is submitted prior to the waiver deadline each academic year. Students have the responsibility for seeking out the help they may need to address physical and/or mental health concerns; including assistance with alcohol or drug dependency problems should they exist or develop during the course of a student’s academic program.
• Students are responsible for complying with the dress code, which has been established with community, student, and faculty input, taking into consideration safety, comfort, and practicality.
• Grading systems are reviewed periodically with students and faculty for clarification and better student-faculty understanding. Course grading policies are published in each course syllabus. Students have a responsibility to be aware of grading policies.
• Students are expected to be aware of procedures for responsible evaluation of nursing faculty and have the responsibility to provide input in the course- and faculty-evaluation process.
• Students must comply with the policies of CU College of Nursing, the campus, the CU Board of Regents, the City of Aurora, the City of Parker, and the State of Colorado.

A faculty advisor will be assigned to each student upon entering the academic program. Students in the undergraduate program will be advised by a faculty member in addition to their academic advisor from the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs, and the Specialty Lead Advisor when a potential or actual interruption in the student’s original program plan is identified. Students in the graduate program will be advised by the Graduate Student Advisor and the appropriate Graduate Specialty Director or Program Director. Each student will be given the name of their advisor via their student portal. In the MS program, the Specialty Directors will serve as student advisors along with the Graduate Student Advisor in the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. DNP students will have a faculty advisor.

Advisors will first refer a student to course faculty should a student have concerns in a specific course. If the concern involves a course grade, the advisor will refer the student to the Course Failure and/or Academic Progression Appeals Policy or the Grade Appeal Unrelated to Progression Policy. If the student feels the issue is not resolved with course faculty or the academic advisor, the advisor will refer the student to the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate, Graduate, DNP, and PhD Programs, or Graduate Specialty Director.

Advisors are available to assist students as they progress through the academic program, but each student is ultimately responsible for their own education and for contacting their advisor as needed. Students are responsible for knowing and completing all curricular requirements and assuming the following responsibilities:

• Knowing the degree requirements and policies as printed in the Student Handbook.
• Making the initial contact with the faculty advisor and/or Graduate Specialty Director by email or phone and meeting with the advisor for Plan of Study review/advice if the student is failing a course or encountering difficulties that might affect academic progression. A student experiencing academic difficulty should immediately seek out both the course instructor and faculty advisor or Graduate Specialty Director.
• At any time during a course, an instructor may initiate a Student Advising Notice (SAN) for a student. If a student receives such a notice, the student should immediately make an appointment with the course instructor and advisor.
• Contact the faculty advisor, Assistant Dean of Undergraduate or Graduate Programs, or Graduate Specialty Director regarding a possible Leave of Absence (LOA) from the program for situations that may require medical clearance or other situations that may affect academic progression.
• Contact the faculty advisor, course faculty, Experiential Learning Team, or graduate specialty directors regarding clinical placement issues or performance in the clinical area that may arise through the program.

In the event that performance is not meeting program or course outcomes, the faculty, clinical scholar/instructor, Graduate Specialty Director, preceptor or appropriate Assistant Dean who observes the behavior or concerning performance is responsible for discussing it directly with the student in a timely manner. In the case of clinical performance, the specific behavior and action for required improvement will be clearly conveyed using the clinical evaluation tool. In some cases, this discussion will be accompanied by the completion of a Student Advising Notice (SAN). The student's understanding of the concern and commitment for improvement will be verified. A specific action plan will be documented, including criteria and timeframes for improvement or continuation in the clinical, consequences for continued violation, and the potential for suspension from the clinical setting.

Meetings and discussions with students should be documented on a SAN. The SAN should be completed by the faculty and shared with the student, and the SAN must include a plan for course success. Copies of the SAN will be sent electronically to the Undergraduate or Graduate Program Manager and to the appropriate Assistant Dean. The program manager will file the SAN in the On-Base (CU Nursing’s student records system).

The SAN is used as a summative and formative tool to evaluate professional behavior as related to course and program outcomes. In addition, the SAN is used to determine appropriate recommended consequences of unprofessional conduct, including action plans for continuation in class, clinical, lab, and simulated learning experiences. An inability to meet elements outlined in the SAN may result in Suspension or Dismissal from the program, course failure or recommendation for course withdrawal, required additional assignment, or consultation or referral as appropriate.

The Clinical Evaluation Tool (CET; Baccalaureate students) or Competency Preceptor Evaluation tool (CPE; graduate students) for every course will include standardized reference to the Critical Elements of PRB as an outcome competency.

Appropriate consequences of unprofessional conduct will be consistently determined, using the PRB. The process for using the SAN is as follows:

• A SAN may be completed at any time in the course or program to alert a student who is not meeting the competencies of the course/program; the SAN represents an attempt to obviate further academic difficulty and provide additional advising/support if necessary.
• The student and course faculty with the Clinical Scholar/Instructor, Specialty Director, or clinical preceptor as needed will meet with the student to discuss concerns regarding academic or professional conduct.
• An action plan will be completed using the SAN form, with follow-up after the course is completed.
• Once the SAN is initiated, it will be distributed to the appropriate CU Nursing leadership member(s) as outlined on the SAN form.
• Students may complete a written response to the concerns outlined in the SAN; the response will be attached to the original SAN form.
• Should the student not meet course outcomes at any time after the SAN has been initiated, and should it then be determined that a student has experienced a course or program failure, a course failure form will be completed.
• The completed SAN is placed in the student’s file for 5 years in the Office of Academic Programs.

The Board of Regents and the CU College of Nursing accrediting agencies require each unit to conduct student evaluations of courses and instructors. Feedback from students is taken seriously at CU Nursing as we work to improve our courses, curriculum, and mentorship of our faculty. All CU College of Nursing students are asked to complete an anonymous online evaluation of each course and instructor at the end of the instructional period. Students will receive instructions on accessing the evaluations through their CU email account.

DRESS CODE AND PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE (DCPA) POLICY

The CU College of Nursing is committed to ensuring all students promote an appearance that is professional in order to instill confidence, trust, and respect in patients and their families. It is important that nurses dress in a professional and appropriate manner and are clearly identified as health care professionals.

This policy applies to all CU College of Nursing students who provide direct patient care in off-site or on-site clinical areas. The purpose of this policy is to provide standards of practice as it pertains to professional dress and appearance. Clinical sites may have additional requirements that students must follow. If students are unsure about a clothing choice, they should seek the advice of their course coordinator. Course and clinical faculty are responsible for communicating, interpreting, and adhering to this policy, and determining appropriateness of attire and appearance for their specific course and clinical facility. In addition, students are expected to apply a certain amount of professional judgment in selecting their attire.

Students who fail to adhere to this policy may be asked to leave the clinical area. Make-up time for missed clinical hours associated with leaving the clinical site may not be available. Multiple violations of this policy may result in a course failure.

Undergraduate Scrub Policy – Students are required to wear a specific scrub style as approved by CU College of Nursing. Scrubs must be purchased through the campus bookstore and ordered at orientation. All scrubs are required to have the CU College of Nursing logo embroidered on the upper left area of the scrub top. Students are required to wear CU College of Nursing scrubs when obtaining patient assignment data for clinical preparation.

The following guidelines apply to all students while performing patient care activities at onsite or offsite clinical sites:

Clothing -- Clothing should fit properly, be clean, pressed, in good condition, and of a length and style that does not interfere in performing job duties.

Examples of inappropriate clothing items include, but are not limited to:

• Denim, sweatpants, exercise pants, shorts of any kind, bib overalls, leggings, tank tops, and any spandex or other form fitting pants such as those worn for biking.
• Bare midriff, low-cut necklines, sun dresses, and spaghetti straps are inappropriate and therefore prohibited.
• Undergarments should not be visible through clothing.
• Students are permitted to wear shirts underneath scrub tops. These shirts must be black, white, or gray and be free from any designs or writing.
• Hats, except for those worn for religious purposes, are not permitted. For further information, please see the AMC Title IX Policy.
• Jackets other than scrub jackets are not permitted for infection concerns (i.e., fleece jackets or vests or similar).

For safety purposes, scrub tops or bottoms may not have any zippers, rings, or other accessories directly attached to the scrubs that may be pulled or accessed by patients.

Footwear -- Professional style shoes must be worn in areas where patients are present. Shoes should be clean, well-polished, in good repair, and dedicated to the work setting. Safety, comfort, appearance, and quietness should be the prime considerations in the selection of appropriate footwear.

• Shoes must be closed-toe, flat, or heels less than 2 inches, made of sturdy material that will not absorb body fluids or potentially hazardous materials, and be of a neutral color.
• Thongs, flip-flops, hiking boots, Crocs, beach sandals, and Five Fingers (or similar footwear) are prohibited.
• Tennis shoes may be worn but must be made of sturdy material that will not absorb body fluids or potentially hazardous materials, clean, and in good repair. Mesh topped tennis shoes are not permitted due to safety concerns.

Jewelry -- Jewelry must not interfere with job performance or safety. Jewelry in the clinical setting should not come in contact with patients, the work area, or pose a danger of becoming caught in machinery or equipment.

• Ear piercings, including studded earrings and small hoops, must be discreet and not create a safety hazard. Gauged or plug earrings must be less than 1/4 inch in diameter.
• No more than 3 items may be worn in an ear at any one time. Nose studs are not allowed.
• Any other visible jewelry worn in piercings is prohibited, including the tongue.
• Pins, buttons, jewelry, emblems, or insignias may be prohibited by agencies and therefore, not allowed.
• Medic alert and wristwatches are not considered jewelry.

Grooming -- Students should exhibit good personal hygiene at all times. This means clean nails, teeth, hair, shoes, body, and clothes. Students must remain free of odors or scents that might be offensive or unhealthy to others, including, but not limited to, cigarette smoke, body odor, bad breath, and excessive use of perfume or cologne.

• Fragrances are not permitted in patient care areas.
• Artificial nails, extenders, or wraps are not permitted. Nails with decals are not permitted. Fingernails should be kept clean, and of an appropriate length to safely perform patient care.
• Hair must be neat, clean, and styled appropriately. Hair should not fall over the eyes or on patients. Hair color or style must be professional and suitable for the clinical environment. Long hair must be secured off the shoulders and face.
• Sideburns, beards, and mustaches must be short, neat, clean, well-trimmed, and follow the contours of the face for sanitary and safety purposes.
• Heavy use of makeup is not acceptable.

Tattoos -- Visible tattoos must be covered.

Identification Badge -- A CU College of Nursing identification badge must be worn and remain visible to patients and staff at all times while a student is in the facility.

• Badges should be unaltered, worn at the waist or above, and either clipped to clothing or around the neck with a break-away lanyard.
  
• Badges need to be easily read by patients and should not be covered by items that obstruct the legibility of names and or photographs. Pins, buttons, or stickers may not be directly attached to the identification badge.
• Off-campus agencies may require students to obtain agency-specific ID badges to be worn. If required, the first agency issued-ID badge is free to the student. Lost, misplaced, or stolen agency issued-ID badges must be reported to the agency and the student will incur a replacement cost. Agency-issued ID badges must be returned to the agency, as indicated by agency policy. Any questions regarding agency-issued ID badges can be directed to the Experiential Learning Team, the clinical instructor, or the course faculty.

Accommodations -- Students may request a dress or grooming accommodation, if necessary, through the University or applicable clinical site.

CU use of email. Email is an official means of communication within CU College of Nursing. CU Nursing employs the practice of sending communications to students via email and expects that those communications will be received and read in a timely fashion. All use of email, including use for sensitive or confidential information, will be consistent with the Administrative Policy Statement on Use of Electronic Mail.

Standard Procedures

CU use of email. Email is an official means for communication within CU Nursing. CU Nursing employs the practice of sending communications to students via email and expects that those communications will be received and read in a timely fashion.

Assignment of the student email address. Information Systems will assign all students an official CU email address. It is to this official address that CU College of Nursing will send email communications; this official address will be the address listed in the CU global address list.

CU email cannot be electronically redirected to another email address. Please contact the Student Email Coordinator or go to the Health Sciences Library for information on how to set up your computer to receive multiple email accounts. Neither CU nor CU Nursing is responsible for the handling of emails by outside vendors.

Not reading email does not absolve a student from the responsibilities associated with communication sent to their official email address. Students are expected to check their official email addresses on a frequent and consistent basis. Students have the responsibility to recognize that certain communications may be time critical.

Educational uses of email. Faculty will determine how email will be used in their classes. If faculty have email requirements/expectations, they will be specified in course syllabi.

All use of email, including use for sensitive or confidential information, will be consistent with the Administrative Policy Statement on Use of Electronic Mail.

Email Communication Guidelines: CU Nursing Students

Campus administrative policy 3019A defines "Electronic communication" as any message transmitted on a digital communications channel, including email, instant message service (Teams), and SMS texting. This guideline specifically pertains to email communication. Follow these ten email communication guidelines to set an example of professionalism, ensure effective communication, and cultivate positive and productive interactions with others.

Clarity and Conciseness

• Be concise and focused: Avoid lengthy emails that may discourage readers. Keep your message clear and to the point. If there are numerous email exchanges, consider using an alternative form of communication.
• Use proper email structure: Organize your emails with a greeting, concise paragraphs, and a closing salutation.
• Benefit of Doubt: If an email seems ambiguous or unclear, assume the sender's positive intention rather than jumping to conclusions. Seek clarification if needed, to avoid misunderstandings.
  

Thorough and Prompt Responses

• Answer all questions and anticipate further inquiries: Ensure your email replies address all queries and prepare for additional questions to save time.
• Respond promptly: Strive to respond to emails promptly, except for non-urgent messages during weekends and holidays. If a response is anticipated to be delayed, acknowledge receipt, and provide an estimated time for a detailed reply.

Professional Language and Proofreading

• Use proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation: Avoid excessive acronyms or slang. Proofread your emails before sending them.
• Avoid writing in all capital letters: Typing in all caps can be seen as shouting and impolite. Use appropriate sentence case instead.
• Be cautious with abbreviations and emoticons: Limit their use in professional emails to avoid confusion.

Email Features and Etiquette

• Email Recall: In the event of a prematurely sent message or a typo, Outlook provides a recall feature, which should be promptly initiated for optimal effectiveness.
• Use high-priority option judiciously: Reserve high-priority flags for genuinely urgent matters to maintain their significance.

Effective Communication and Context

• Include the message thread: When replying to an email, include the original message thread for context and easy reference. This helps recipients follow the conversation flow.
• Use "Reply to All" sparingly: Only use "Reply to All" when all recipients need to see your response. Consider whether individual replies or a more focused group reply is appropriate.
• Thoughtful and limited use of CCs (Courtesy Copy): Include leaders, peers, or supervisors in CCs thoughtfully, prioritizing their involvement based on decision-making relevance or information needs, not to solely gain leverage or make a point. Use the CC field sparingly, including only those crucial for effective communication who genuinely require information or action.
• Blind Carbon Copy (BCC): Use BCC for group privacy, avoiding reply-all clutter, and discreet sharing. Ethical BCC use is vital. Misusing it, like hiding recipients for wrong reasons or being deceptive, can damage trust.

Privacy and Permission

• Use discretion when forwarding emails: Exercise caution when forwarding emails. Respect others' privacy by assessing the context and relevance before sharing. Seek permission from the original sender or relevant parties, if necessary, to uphold trust and respect for everyone involved.
• Consider encryption: When sharing sensitive information outside CU Nursing, encrypt the email before sending. Encryption safeguards content from unauthorized access during transmission, enhancing security and reducing the risk of data breaches.

Subject Line and Content

• Use a meaningful subject line: Create subject lines that accurately describe the email's content, conveying its purpose and urgency.
• Avoid offensive content: Refrain from using offensive language, making derogatory remarks, or sharing inappropriate material.

Considerate and Inclusive Communication

• Ensure inclusivity in language usage: When discussing a generic or hypothetical individual where gender is not pertinent to the context, avoid gendered pronouns like "he" and "she," or combinations like "he or she," as these assume a gender. Instead, utilize the singular "they" for its gender-inclusive nature. For specific individuals, adhere to their chosen pronouns (e.g., "he," "she," "they). Refer to the Inclusive Language Guidelines by the American Psychological Association for more details on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
• Be respectful and positive: Use courteous and polite language in your emails. Address recipients correctly and consider their perspectives. Employ positive language by using words like "thank you," "appreciate," and "please" to maintain a positive tone.
• Email Accessibility for Screen Reader Users: Screen readers convert text on a screen into spoken words, enabling users to listen to the content. When sending emails, use descriptive subject lines, clear headings, meaningful link text, and provide alt text for images to make your emails more accessible to screen readers.

Alternative Communication and Email Signature

• Remember email's limitations: For sensitive or complex matters, consider alternative communication channels like face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or Zoom chats instead of relying solely on email.
• Prevent last-minute email cancellations: Notify attendees promptly in case of potential conflicts or schedule changes. Utilize quicker communication methods like phone calls or instant messages to convey any updates effectively.
• Use a proper email signature: Include a professional email signature with your full name, title, contact information, and any additional branding elements in compliance with University of Colorado (CU) Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC) guidelines.

Thoughtful Sending and Public Nature

• Avoid Making Assumptions: Refrain from assuming negative motives or reading between the lines. Stick to the facts presented in the email and, if unsure, ask for clarification politely.
• Think twice before sending: Avoid sending emails when angry or frustrated. Take time to compose yourself and consider the potential consequences of your message. Seek feedback if needed.
• Remember email's public nature: Understand that emails may not remain private and can be shared or made public. Exercise caution and review your written communication to prevent misunderstandings or regrettable content.

All CU students are expected to be familiar with and act in accordance with CU System Social Media Guidelines. Social networks are not to be used for posting or communicating anything related to clinical agency patients, patient condition, patient care, or the activities of providers. Any posting or communication on social networks is a violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Additionally, students are expected to follow the guidelines for social media use as outlined in the American Nurses Association Social Media Principles and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing White Paper on the use of Social Media.

Children in the Workplace and/or Classroom

Overview

The workplace and the classroom are typically not appropriate places for non-student, minor children to be present on a frequent or continuing basis. Children will not be allowed in the CU College of Nursing classrooms on the Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC) or the Legacy Campus (South Denver) Location. This policy exists for the safety of the minor, as well as to foster respect for those students in the classroom attempting to participate in class activities without disruption. The CU College of Nursing ascribes to the CU Boulder policy regarding children in the workplace and/or classroom.

Standard Procedure

• If a student has an emergent circumstance (e.g., illness, school closing) that affects childcare, the student should notify the instructor by phone, email, and/or Canvas messaging as soon as possible.
• The student should meet with course faculty regarding missed content, exams, or assignments or obtain missing content from a classmate.

Overview

CU College of Nursing understands that under certain extreme weather conditions, students cannot and should not attempt to travel to campus or clinical sites. We recognize the Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC) rarely closes due to the nature of its education, practice, and research obligations that emphasize keeping the campus open. Please refer to the AMC-wide policy.

When there is inclement weather:

• All students are expected to exercise individual judgment regarding their ability to travel safely to campus when inclement weather is in the area.
• Students are not expected to prioritize class attendance or clinical experience above personal safety.
• Students must assume responsibility for deciding if weather conditions are too hazardous to permit safe driving.
• Students must notify their appropriate course instructor(s)/preceptor/supervisor or Specialty Director as soon as possible if not attending class or clinical.

If a faculty member needs to cancel a class or clinical session due to inability to get to campus:

• The faculty member will make every attempt to notify all students in that course as early as possible via Canvas or email.
• Students will be responsible for checking their email or Canvas platform for information.
• It is the faculty member's responsibility to provide a reasonable opportunity for students to obtain the missed content, complete assignments or examinations missed due to inclement weather.
• Faculty members have discretion in determining whether additional classes will be added for the missed class or if additional work will be assigned due to a closure or delayed opening.

Standard Procedure—AMC/Legacy Campus

CU College of Nursing will officially close if the AMC closes. Should this occur:

• Students are not expected to attend on-site or off-site clinical/internship assignments.
• Students are expected to contact the appropriate on-site or off-site clinical/internship supervisor prior to the clinical experience to notify the supervisor of their absence.
• Students are not expected to attend in-person or online classes (see policy overview above).
• It is the faculty member's responsibility to provide a reasonable opportunity for students to complete assignments or examinations missed due to inclement weather.
• Faculty members have discretion in determining whether additional classes will be added to the class or if additional work is assigned due to a closure or delayed opening.

If the AMC delays opening, CU College of Nursing will delay opening, as well. The following guidelines apply:

• Students are expected to follow local media, the CU website, and the Anschutz Medical Campus Alerts to find the specific time of opening.
• Students are expected to report to their regularly scheduled classes when the campus opens unless the student deems weather conditions are too hazardous for travel to campus.
• All classes scheduled prior to the set time of opening are canceled for the day.

Volunteer work allows students the opportunity to gain experience in the clinical and healthcare environment as well as contribute to the community. The CU College of Nursing supports the participation of its students in University approved and community volunteer activities. The purpose of this policy is to set forth the volunteer activities that are covered by the University's Malpractice Insurance Trust, and the conditions students must meet in order to participate in University approved volunteer activities.

This policy applies to volunteer activities in which the student is representing themselves as a CU College of Nursing student.

• The University of Colorado is self-insured against medical malpractice claims through the University of Colorado’s Self-Insurance Trust (“Trust”). The Trust provides malpractice insurance for health care practitioners-in-training (students) who are enrolled and matriculated in a University of Colorado program for acts or omissions that occur within the course and scope of the individual’s responsibilities as a student.
• The Trust does not provide malpractice insurance coverage for student activities or actions that are outside the course and scope of the student’s academic program responsibilities as approved by the University. The University does not assume responsibility for the willful or wanton actions or its students or for any punitive or exemplary damages awarded against students.

The purpose of this policy is to set forth the parameters regarding when student volunteer activities are covered by the Trust and therefore permissible.

 

---

 

Clinical Volunteer Activities by Nursing Students

Clinical volunteer activities performed by students representing themselves as CU Nursing students enrolled at CU Nursing are covered by the Trust if they fall within the scope of the individual’s responsibilities as a nursing student and are approved activities within the official nursing curriculum (see below for a list of approved activities). Students participating in approved volunteer activities may or may not be awarded course credit, however, these activities are covered by the Trust.

Non-approved volunteer activities:

All non-approved volunteer activities must be approved, in writing, by the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate or Graduate Programs, or their designee. The exception to this is shadowing and observation activities which do not need to be approved.

Process for approval:

The student will submit a request for approval of the event via email to the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate or Graduate Programs, Specialty Director, or their designee 72 hours in advance of the event. The request must contain the following information:

• Name of Event
• Date of Event
• Location of the Event
• Activities performed at the event by the student
• Supervision (if any) of the event
• If the event involves several students, provide the names of each student

In determining whether a non-approved volunteer activity will be approved, consideration will be given to such factors as: a) whether the volunteer activity incorporates aspects of the College of Nursing curriculum; b) the level of supervision provided to the student. Decisions regarding requests for non-approved volunteer activities will be communicated by the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate or Graduate Program, or the Specialty Director to the student via email within 24 hours of receiving the request for approval.

Pre-approved clinical activities:

The CU Nursing has pre-approved a limited number of volunteer activities/locations for student participation. Students who chose to volunteer at these locations will be covered by the Trust for malpractice purposes provided they notify the Assistant Dean of Undergraduate or Graduate Programs or the Associate Dean of Academic Programs prior to their participation.

The approved CU Nursing volunteer activities/locations are:

• Dedicated to Aurora's Wellness Needs (DAWN) Clinic
• National Western Stock Show
• 9News Health Fair at Sheridan Clinic
• 9News Health Fair at University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora
• Flu Shot Clinic at the University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora
• Flu Shot Clinic at Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora

Shadowing and Observation Activities by Nursing Students

Shadowing and observation activities include activities designed to promote clinical skill observation or career exploration and may be carried out under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals. Shadowing is defined as observing a physician, nurse, therapist, technician, and other healthcare providers as they care for patients or perform their day-to-day duties (from UCH Educational Observation Program website: https://www.uchealth.org/give-to-uchealth/volunteer/)

Shadowing and observation activities performed by CU Nursing students are covered by the Trust if they fall within the scope of the individual’s responsibilities as a student (see Professional Role Behaviors and Honor and Conduct Code in Student Handbook). Prior approval is not required for shadowing or observation activities.

Conditions of Participating in Volunteer or Shadowing Activities

Students must comply with the following criteria in order to participate in CU Nursing volunteer activities:

• Students must be in good academic standing. Students on suspension or probation are not eligible to participate.
• Students may only perform clinical activities that they are qualified to perform based on their progression in the nursing program, and within their scope of practice as a student.
• Students must identify themselves as a CU Nursing student and must wear their University of Colorado name badge.
• Students must abide by the College of Nursing Student Honor and Conduct Code and Professional Role Behaviors and all other University of Colorado policies and procedures.

Failure to comply with the above criteria may result in dismissal, suspension, or expulsion from the Nursing program or referral to the Student Affairs Committee.

A grievance is defined as an academic or non-academic concern that a student has with a faculty/instructor, staff member, administrator, department, or program, related to an alleged violation of the College’s stated values, policies, or procedures.

The grievance procedure is designed to create a formal mechanism for students to submit concerns where it may appear that the College of Nursing’s values, policies, or procedures are not being adhered to. This process is designed to ensure that the grievance is routed to the appropriate office or individual, reviewed, and acted upon. The CU College of Nursing strongly believes that all students have the right to lodge a complaint or grievance without fear of retaliation of any sort or any other adverse consequences.

Students considering a grievance are encouraged to explore avenues that can bring about a mutually agreed understanding in which all parties are heard and understanding occurs. Students are encouraged to first consider a direct discussion of their concern with the faculty or staff member involved. In addition to the grievance process, the University Ombuds office is another resource to assist students with facilitating communications and coaching on effectively managing difficult conversations. The grievance process is intended for student concerns that do not involve course progression. Issues involving course progression should be directed to the Student Affairs Committee (SAC).

Examples of Grievances: 

• Situations involving faculty performance (e.g., not answering emails within published syllabus guidelines, lapses in teaching quality, etc.) or faculty behavior (e.g., discriminatory or biased remarks, unprofessional teaching methodology, etc.) 
• Inconsistency in application of class, CU Nursing, or University policies (e.g., exam procedures, excused absences, accommodations) as published in the course syllabus or Student Handbook and not affecting program progression. 
• Irregularity in faculty processes for issuing grades on exams, assignments and not affecting program progression. 
• Variations in adherence to published clinical evaluation methods or clinical expectations and not affecting program progression.

Grievances related to courses are required to be submitted no more than 30 days after the course has ended or grade notification has been issued. To allow for a thorough and accurate accounting of the details of the grievance and CU Nursing’s response, it is recommended to submit a grievance within 5 business days of the event that led to the grievance filing. Formal grievances must be submitted via the established process outlined below, i.e., in writing and with the student’s name attached to the grievance. Informal, verbal-only, or anonymous grievances will not be considered. 

Students who wish to express concerns without submitting a formal grievance may provide feedback by submitting an anonymous course evaluation survey at the end of the semester; course evaluation survey results (including open-ended text responses) are also provided to the faculty member’s supervisor and are considered as one element of the faculty member’s annual review.

Grievances not included in this policy:

Student grievances based upon but not limited to alleged violations of state or federal law, sexual misconduct and sexual harassment, discrimination, harassment, threatening or harmful behavior, financial aid and scholarships issues, billing issues, undue favoritism, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 must be handled through the designated University policy or the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

Inconsistencies in class policies, procedures, or published syllabus policies that result in an interruption in program progression do not fall under the grievance policy, and instead may be appealed per the CU Nursing Appeal Policy.  Academic probation, suspension, Student Honor and Conduct Code violations, etc. are addressed through the program-specific academic office. 

Faculty Rights and Responsibilities:

Individual faculty members have primary authority and responsibility in areas related to grades, exam procedures, excused absences, class policies, etc., not affecting progression. Faculty are charged with carrying out those responsibilities in a professional and equitable manner. Students should be aware that administrators cannot require an instructor to change a properly assigned course grade. Issues of disagreement about whether, for example, a given essay was worth a B or an A, are decided solely by the individual instructor in charge (see policy on grade change unrelated to progression). 

PROCEDURE

RESPONSIBILITIES

Admission and Student Affairs is responsible for maintaining the administrative aspects of the policy and forms associated with the Grievance Policy.

Admissions and Student Affairs is responsible for forwarding filed grievances. Grievances will be reported directly to:

• the appropriate supervisor, and
• Program Assistant Deans,
• Associate Dean of Academic Programs, and the
• Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Students.  

The Division Chairs, as supervisors of the faculty, have primary responsibilities for evaluating and resolving grievances that involve faculty; however, if a faculty member reports to a different supervisor such as an Associate Dean, then that supervisor may be involved instead.  Other individuals such as Assistant Deans or the Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Students may also be involved in the evaluation and resolution of grievances.

Admissions and Student Affairs is also responsible for tracking filed grievances. Aggregated grievance data (deidentified) are also a program evaluation element of Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation.

PROCESS FOR FILING A GRIEVANCE: 

Students exploring the grievance process are strongly encouraged to initiate the informal process (described below) as most grievances have the best possible opportunity for resolution using informal remedies and ethical communication.

Students are responsible for their continued engagement in academic activities while the grievance is being processed. To allow for a thorough and accurate accounting of the details of the grievance and CU Nursing’s response, it is recommended to submit a grievance within 5 business days of the event that led to the grievance filing. Grievances related to courses are required to be submitted no more than 30 days after the course has ended or grade notification has been issued.

Students who have concerns about potential negative consequences from filing a grievance should reach out to the Director of Admissions and Student Affairs or the appropriate Assistant Dean of the respective academic program. The process for submitting a grievance is not anonymous, but it is recognized that a power differential can exist between CU Nursing faculty, staff, instructors and students. As such, when needed, confidentiality will be preserved as much as possible when discussing the grievance, with involved parties, if naming the student is not needed for grievance resolution. See reporting responsibilities above for individuals who are notified when a grievance is filed.

Informal Process:

Students are encouraged to first discuss the issue with the individual faculty person to resolve the problem, if possible, prior to submitting an official grievance. Students seeking counseling on how to approach faculty or staff members can reach out to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs or the University Ombuds Office.

Formal Process:

If resolution is not garnered through the informal process, the student can initiate the formal grievance process by submitting the CU Nursing Grievance Form available on the CU Nursing website within the Student Life section of the website.

1. Once the form is submitted it will be vetted by OASA as meeting the criteria for review as a formal grievance.  If this grievance does not meet the criteria for review, it will be routed to the appropriate office.
2. If a grievance meets criteria, it will be sent to the appropriate faculty or staff supervisor who will review the grievance, follow up as needed with individuals involved in the situation and recommend a resolution.
3. The responsible individual, supervisor or office must submit a Grievance Response form noting the investigation's outcome and any actions taken. At this stage, the grievance will be considered closed. The form when submitted will be routed to the appropriate individuals.
4. Once the outcome is determined, the reporting student will receive notification from the Admissions and Student Affairs that the grievance has been closed; this decision is final.
   1. Grievances that are process related will be closed by the investigating supervisor or process owner. When needed, involved parties can discuss the best person to communicate the outcome with students. For this type of grievance, the student also can be provided with a summary of decisions or actions taken. The level of detail to be provided is at the discretion of the investigating supervisor or process owner.
   2. If the grievance includes employee relations/HR concerns, due to the sensitive and private nature of the grievance, detailed outcomes will not be disclosed to the student. However, general information can be shared on a case-by-case basis as appropriate or allowed.
   3. Students with questions after the outcome of the grievance is disclosed can be directed to the appropriate supervisor or division chair as needed. The ability for the student to receive details of the grievance investigation and outcome is limited when the grievance involves protected or private information.
5. Grievance reports (filings and outcomes) will be delivered by OASA each semester to the Sr. Associate Dean of Faculty and Students for review and presented as needed

At CU Nursing, our in-person and online learning environments are designed to cultivate key competencies for professional nurses, such as clinical reasoning, teamwork, collaboration, problem-solving, and professional communication. Students are responsible for their learning and meeting the outcomes of the course and program of study. Attending online and in-person classes regularly is vital for acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills to practice safely and effectively. However, absences can happen for a variety of reasons. The following policy details the process for managing absences in both settings.

In addition to the CU Nursing Classroom Attendance Policy, faculty are responsible for clearly outlining course-specific attendance expectations in the syllabus, particularly as they relate to assignments and evaluations (e.g., exams, classroom assessments). These guidelines should align with and complement the CU Nursing Classroom Attendance Policy.

Notification to Course Faculty

According to the CU Nursing Honor and Conduct Code, students are required to notify the course faculty prior to any absence. CU Nursing recognizes that in extreme circumstances, it may not be possible for the student to notify the faculty before the absence. In these circumstances, the case will be reviewed individually and in congruence with the course’s policy. Students and faculty are expected to collaborate on a plan for missed assignments and exams, following CU Nursing policies. Certain absences may lead to interruptions in the student's program plan, and in these instances, students should consult with the Assistant Dean or Specialty Director of the appropriate program to create an individualized plan.

Punctuality and Defining Absences

The professional expectation in the College of Nursing is to be prepared to engage at the start time of the course. Students may occasionally run late or need to leave class early. Due to the high degree of variability between courses both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the definition of tardiness and when missing class becomes an absence is defined in the course syllabus. Students are encouraged to communicate with faculty to clarify course policy and its impact on their performance in the class.

Absences Protected by Law

Certain absences are protected by law and therefore, considered excused absences.  The college is required to provide a make-up option for any missed class, provided it is reasonable to do so and does not fundamentally alter the curriculum. Extended absences in this category may result in a need to consult with the assistant dean of the specialty director of the student’s specific program.

The following are excused absences protected by law:

• Absences that have been approved through the Office of Disability Access and Inclusion (ODAI) accommodation process.
• Absences related to military obligations.
• Absences due to required legal proceedings or jury appearances.
• Absences due to the observance of religious holidays or cultural observances.
• Medically related absences due to pregnancy accommodations.

Absences Managed at the Course Level

The College of Nursing recognizes the unique needs and structure of each course as it relates to absences. Students and faculty are encouraged to collaborate and develop a plan for success in conjunction with course requirements and CU Nursing policies. Extended absences for any reason may be managed in conjunction with the faculty and the Assistant Dean or Specialty Director of the specific academic program.

Clinical Absences

For absences in the clinical setting, please refer to the appropriate Office of Academic Programs’ policies and university policies.

The following provides guidance for the types of absences managed at the course level: 

• Absences due to Infectious illnesses.
• For students who are symptomatic, sick, or test positive for COVID-19: Follow the COVID-19 Campus Protocols.  
• For students experiencing symptoms of an infectious illness (fever, chills, myalgia, headache, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, cough, fatigue, etc.):
• Students must self-monitor their symptoms and may return to the classroom setting when symptoms are improving with no vomiting or diarrhea, and afebrile without the use of fever-reducing medications for 24 hours.
• Infectious or non-infectious conditions, including COVID-19, do not require medical clearance or documentation for return to class unless extenuating circumstances arise or the illness becomes prolonged. In these situations, a medical clearance from the student’s provider may be required and will be managed in conjunction with the Assistant Dean or Specialty Director of the appropriate program.
• Absences due to bereavement or caregiving (e.g., included but not limited to death of a family member or significant other; ill child or ill family member).
• Absences due to professional activities (e.g., poster-presentation at professional conferences).  The College of Nursing supports participation in professional organizations and dissemination of new knowledge at conferences and professional activities. This applies to students actively participating in a professional organization or attending/presenting at a conference.
• Absences not covered by the previous categories. Students may occasionally choose to be absent for personal reasons or miss class for reasons that do not fall within the categories outlined above. In these cases, students are encouraged to first refer to the course syllabus and the College policy and communicate with their course faculty as early as possible to discuss the absence. The course faculty will help students understand the impact of the absence on their performance in the course.