Student pharmacists are expected to demonstrate professional attributes throughout their training (preclinical and clinical years) both within and outside the boundaries of a course, professional learning experience, or clinical activity. A student pharmacist's demonstration of the highest standard of professional behavior is necessary to progress to graduation.
The intent of the School is to provide notice and offer assistance to the student to remedy any identified deficiencies. A faculty member, course director, or preceptor who has identified unprofessional behavior may give feedback to the student using a Professionalism Evaluation Form (PEF).
The following may occur if unprofessional behavior is identified:
- The faculty or staff member, course director, or preceptor may complete the PEF.
- If a PEF is completed, the student will be required to submit a written response within 72 hours of receiving a copy of the PEF.
- The student and the originator of the PEF will meet to discuss goals for improvement and/or a remediation plan.
- The completed PEF will be submitted to the Office of Pharmacy Education and retained in the student's electronic file in Enflux. If the incident involves a 4th year student (APPE year), the completed PEF will also be submitted to the Associate Dean for Experiential Education.
- If a student incurs a pattern of multiple PEFs, receives a PEF documenting a serious unprofessional behavior, or does not respond to or sign a PEF, the Academic Oversight Committee may review the PEF(s) for possible action.
Appendix A: Examples of Unprofessional Student Behaviors
- Engages in abuse of power in interactions with patients or colleagues
- Engages in bias and/or sexual harassment
- Does not respect patient autonomy and/or confidentiality
- Does not dress in an appropriate and professional manner
- Does not use appropriate names and titles when addressing faculty and preceptors
- Does not attend required lectures/group sessions
- Does not respond in a reasonable time to communications from faculty and administration
- Does not attend a patient-related activity and neglects to make appropriate contact with the preceptor
- Does not meet requirements to progress to clinical experiences (e.g., immunizations, orientation sessions)
- Demonstrates difficulty incorporating feedback in order to make changes in behavior
- Demonstrates difficulty fulfilling academic and professional responsibilities in a reliable and timely manner
- Misrepresents or falsifies actions and/or information
- Is not punctual for professional obligations
- Appears resistant or defensive in accepting constructive feedback and/or criticism
- Demonstrates difficulty accepting responsibility for errors
- Shows signs of being overly critical or verbally abusive during times of stress
- Demonstrates arrogance
- Has difficulty creating rapport with fellow students, faculty, staff, or patients
- Lacks empathy and demonstrates insensitivity to the needs of peers, patients, and/or others
- Shows signs of not functioning well within the health care team concept
- Has difficulty establishing and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
- Does not demonstrate honesty
- Disrupts the academic environment or impedes the learning opportunities of others
- Does not treat others with respect, including those of diverse race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, or socioeconomic status
- Does not resolve conflicts in a manner that respects the dignity of every person involved
- Does not use professional language in professional settings
Revised 30 July 2024