Dress Code Guidance

Dress Code Guidance for Simulated Practice/Practical Sessions in the Skills Laboratories

Rationale

During clinical simulations/practical sessions within the skills laboratory setting staff and students should maintain a smart, professional image which adheres to infection control and health and safety standards.

Objectives

• To comply with Infection Control and Health and Safety Legislation

• To promote mobility and comfort for the wearer

Dress Code Guidance

Students should adhere to practice standard uniform / tunic, or the requirements of their workplace, including the requirement to be bare below the elbow.

Footwear

In the Skills Laboratories students’ footwear should

• have non-slip soft soles/soft heels

• be clean and well maintained

• support the foot and be fully enclosed

• be made of non absorbent material (in case of spillages)

Slip on, lace-up, velcro fastening styles are all acceptable

Shoes similar to those worn in clinical practice are ideal as long as they meet the above

The following are deemed unsuitable:

1. High heels

2. Flip flops, sandals or other very casual shoes

3. Floppy unsupported boots (such as Ugg style boots)

Jewellery:

• Wristwatches must not be worn as they compromise hand hygiene standards

• Small plain stud earrings may be worn only. No hoop earrings should be worn

• One plain ring band may be worn. Rings with stones should not be worn in clinical simulations/practical sessions as they compromise hand hygiene

• No visible necklaces, chains, bracelets, ankle chains should be worn

• Other items which do not project a professional image or do not comply with infection control and health and safety standards should not be worn

• The security of jewellery that has been removed remains the responsibility of the wearer

Hair:

• Hair should be clean, neat and tidy

• Long hair should be tied back above the collar during clinical simulations/practical sessions

• Hair fastenings should be minimal

Finger Nails:

• Fingernails should be kept short, clean and neat

• Nail varnish, false nails, nail extensions or nail jewellery/gems should not be worn in order to comply with hand hygiene standards

If the student’s appearance is deemed inappropriate or unsafe by the lecturer or facilitator the student may be excluded from the clinical simulation/practical session and where relevant simulated practice learning hours will not be awarded. Students will not be able to participate in the clinical simulation/practical session until they are dressed appropriately.