VCOM College Catalog and Student Handbook

moderate techniques that do not distract from patient care or communication. Products must be compatible with safety protocols, such as mask-wearing, and should not interfere with cleanliness or sterilization practices. Fingernails shall be clean, neat, and the length shall not exceed ¼ inch from the nail bed so as not to interfere with the student’s and/or patient’s safety or ability to perform their duties. Nails should not be seen from the palm of the hand. Regular nail polish is allowed as long as it is not chipped. Universal Cologne, Perfume, or Aftershave Standards The use of cologne, perfumes, body sprays, scented body lotions or aftershave shall be used with restraint. These are not recommended in the patient care setting due to patient allergies and sensitivities and students may be sent home by the precepting faculty. Universal Tattoos, Piercings, and Jewelry Standards Tattoos and multiple piercings may carry a risk of infectious disease transmission if not performed under appropriate sterile conditions. Additionally, perceptions of tattoos and piercings can vary significantly based on cultural, regional, and institutional norms. In clinical settings, patients, parents, or caregivers may view visible tattoos and piercings as unprofessional or inappropriate, as medical students are often perceived as role models. Clinical site expectations, patient populations, and supervising physicians may; therefore, influence the acceptability of visible tattoos and piercings during clinical rotations. As such, at the request of the preceptor, hospitals and/or clinical sites, clothing must be worn that covers the arms and neck if tattoos are present. Additionally, visible body piercings should be limited in clinical and academic settings to maintain a professional appearance and ensure patient safety. Small earrings (such as studs or small hoops) may be permitted, while facial piercings (e.g., nose rings, eyebrow rings, lip piercings) and other visible body jewelry are not permitted. This policy aligns with common hospital and clinical site dress codes, which prioritize patient comfort, infection control, and professional presentation. Any jewelry worn must not interfere with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), pose a safety hazard, or compromise infection prevention protocols. Students may be asked to remove or cover piercings that do not comply with these standards during clinical rotations or patient-facing experiences. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or other adornments should be kept to a minimum and of a size and design to not interfere with student and/or patient safety or the ability to perform clinical duties. Dress Code in the Classroom and on Campus In addition to the universal hygiene and dress code standards outlined above, VCOM has established a business casual dress code to allow students to work and study comfortably in the academic setting, as well as project a professional image for faculty and staff, potential employers, and college visitors. Business casual dress on campus is enforced Monday – Friday from 7am – 5pm anytime a student is on campus, regardless of whether the student is engaged in curricular activities (i.e. business casual dress is required even when studying on campus during those hours) and may be required outside of those hours for specific on- or off-campus events. Outside of those hours and on weekends, when students are not engaged in curricular activities, students may wear casual clothing that is becoming of a professional student. Business casual attire blends traditional business attire with a more relaxed style, aiming to look professional without being overly formal. Male students should wear shirts with collars and sleeves and long pants such as khakis Artificial nails are prohibited in the clinical setting.

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