Professional Attire Policy

Agreements and contracts with clinical agencies dictate that student nurses follow a specific dress code. With this in mind, all students are required to wear uniforms at all clinical settings, including the School of Nursing labs, and in any international setting. The uniform requirements may be modified at specific sites so that students are in compliance with clinical site policy. Please be mindful of the fact that as a student you are representing Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (JHSON) at all of your clinical sites.

MSN Entry into Nursing Standard Uniform

Students must have uniforms available the first week of their initial term. 

  • For MSN Entry into Nursing, the standard uniform consists of the following as determined by a specific course:
    • Navy blue uniform pants
    • Navy blue uniform skirt
    • Navy blue scrub top
    • White scrub top
    • Black, navy, or white shoes (non-permeable)
  • All scrub tops and lab coats must have the JHSON patch sewn on the left upper sleeve.
  • The School uniform, patch, and identification badge will be worn by an individual when functioning in the student role. A student may not wear a School uniform in an employment situation.
  • Students with special uniform needs pertaining to cultural or religious requirements should see the Program Director before purchasing uniforms. Accommodations may be made for the student’s cultural or religious obligations.
  • No casual attire is permitted in any work setting at any time (i.e. jeans, shorts, sweatshirts, T-shirts, sandals.)
  • A long white lab coat (provided by JHSON sponsors) includes the School of Nursing patch on the left sleeve and school name embroidered on left breast worn over professional attire.
  • The long white lab coat may be worn over professional attire in some situations, to be determined by faculty.
  • When a lab coat is worn, the identification badge must also be worn.
  • Short white lab coats are not permitted.
  • Students must wear the official lab coat and professional attire when visiting a clinical setting to review patient assignments, etc.
  • If scrubs are not required, the long white lab coat may be worn over professional attire in most situations. The JHSON uniform, and identification badge must be worn by an individual when functioning in the student /clinical role.

Shoes

  • Sneakers, canvas shoes, and Crocs are not permitted.
  • Shoes must be non-permeable.
  • Navy, black, or white shoes are acceptable.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

As a Johns Hopkins School of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice student, you should dress in accordance with the clinical practice and/or organizational site. You are representing Johns Hopkins and should be professional in all aspects of the clinical practice/site. This may include business casual, organizational scrubs, or any other practice/organizational guidelines.

Dress Code Requirements for DNP Clinical Practicum, Onsite Immersions & Project Practicum:

  • Wear Professional Attire
  • Most sites will require that you wear a Johns Hopkins School of Nursing Lab Coat
  • Ensure your JHSON Student ID Badge is visible at all times
  • Be prepared with any tools/resources/equipment needed
  • Follow dress code guidelines of the host institution/site

Additional Information for all students

  • Jewelry: Only one small post earring in each ear is allowed in clinical areas.
    • Dangling or hoop earrings and bracelets are prohibited.
    • Jewelry must be removed from any other visibly pierced location, including the tongue.
  • A watch with a second hand or a digital watch that can track seconds is required.
  • All tattoos must be covered.
  • Hair must be worn above the collar or tied back securely with a small clip or band.
    • Large hair bows or scarves are not permitted.
    • Extreme hair colors are not permitted.
    • For cultural or religious purposes, a solid navy blue, black, or white head-covering may be worn with the uniform.
    • Beards and mustaches are acceptable if trimmed neatly.
    • Facial stubble is not permitted.
  • Fingernails should be clean, trimmed to no longer than 1/4 inch beyond fingertips, and with either pale or no polish.
    • Fingernails are to be free of ornaments. Fingernail polish is to be free of chips.
    • Artificial fingernails or other nail enhancements are not permitted because of documented outbreaks of infection due to gram negative bacteria associated with artificial nails.
  • Makeup, if worn, must be applied in moderation to enhance the natural features and create a professional image.
    • Glitter, sequins, and false eye lashes (including lash extensions) are prohibited.
  • Scented products: The use of all scented products, such as perfume, cologne, after-shave, hairspray, or lotions, are prohibited as they may have adverse effects on patients, visitors, and other employees.

ID Badge and Uniform Patch/Emblem

The JHSON picture ID badge is obtained during the orientation process. The picture ID badge should be worn at all times in class and the clinical setting. The student is responsible for having the current patch/emblem (when receiving or purchasing a used uniform top).

Students will be notified about the required clinical attire for their specific clinical site by their clinical instructor before the clinical course begins.

Uniforms and shoes are available from

Improper Uniform

Faculty members will tell an improperly dressed student to leave the clinical setting and return in proper uniform. The lost clinical time cannot be rescheduled, and a clinical warning may be issued.