Potential Reasons for Dismissal from the PN Program
Note: This list is not exhaustive. Additional behaviors or incidents may also result in disciplinary action, including dismissal, at the discretion of program leadership.
A student may be dismissed from clinical assignments, individual courses, or the practical nursing program as a whole for any of the following reasons:
Threats to Health or Safety
Any behavior that endangers the health or safety of clients, their families, healthcare team members, fellow students, or faculty may result in disciplinary action, including immediate removal from the program. In some cases, the action may warrant permanent dismissal.
Unprofessional Conduct
A student may be dismissed if, in the judgment of the faculty, their behavior is deemed detrimental to the integrity of the nursing program or the nursing profession.
Breach of Confidentiality
Violations of patient, peer, or institutional confidentiality—whether intentional or unintentional—may result in immediate dismissal from the course or program.
Substance Use
Being under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or misused prescription medication while engaged in classroom, lab, or clinical activities is grounds for dismissal.
Violation of Professional or Academic Standards Students may be dismissed for:
- Violations of OTC Academic Integrity guidleines
- Acts of theft or dishonesty
- Other serious breaches of professional conduct
Personal Hygiene and Odor Control
Students may be removed from clinical settings if they are perceived to be emitting strong or offensive odors, including body odor, tobacco, alcohol, perfume, or cologne.
Clinical Site Access Denial
If a clinical site denies a student the ability to return—for any reason, including conduct outside of the practical nursing program—the student may not be reassigned to another site. An an alternative clinical assignment may not be available, which could result in the student failing the course, and being dismissed from the program.