Des Moines University provides educational opportunities to students in the health care professions. As a necessary component for entry into the health care professions, students recognize that they must conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times. The code formally recognizes the ability of students to take responsibility for their professional behavior. Students are, therefore, expected to familiarize themselves with and abide by provisions of the code of ethics established by the professional organization relevant to each of us. In addition to the code of ethics established by the various professions, the expectation is that we will comply at all times with the Student code of conduct set forth in the student handbook established by the University and act in a fashion designed to meet the expectations of the profession, faculty, administration, general public and the student community. Consistent with such expectations of a health care professional, the following student code of conduct has been established for DMU students.
Student Code of Conduct
The Student Code of Conduct reflects values to guide students in their professional development. Since the Code is supported by the entire Des Moines University community, it is very important that students and all DMU employees embrace and adhere to the principles and practices of the Code.
Student Pledge
As a student at Des Moines University, I understand that integrity is essential to my success as a future health care professional. I pledge my commitment to the values of Honesty, Accountability, Collaboration and Inclusiveness as the basic tenets of integrity. With these values, I look forward to developing the ethical principles that will guide my academic life and future professional practice.
Values
To translate these values into action, students at Des Moines University should model behaviors defined within each of the four standards for integrity. These behaviors are descriptive and are not inclusive of all possible actions within the value. Behaviors inconsistent with these standards will be subject to disciplinary action as defined in the Student Handbook.
Honesty – I pledge to observe personal and intellectual honesty in all academic endeavors, including learning, teaching, research, patient care and service. I understand that honesty is the foundation of integrity and, furthermore, I understand that I must confront and report instances of suspected misconduct in order to preserve the institution’s standards of ethical behavior. In committing myself to truth and knowledge, I must be prepared not only to demonstrate honesty in my own behaviors, but to educate others within this community of learners in order to safeguard the standards upon which the University’s mission is based.
Accountability – I pledge to demonstrate personal accountability by accepting responsibility for my actions and abiding by all policies and procedures in handbooks, syllabi and other official documents of the University. I will be accountable to all within our community to uphold the integrity of scholarship and research by taking action against wrongdoing. I will strive to develop to my full potential, while addressing my shortcomings as an opportunity for growth and self-learning. I will conduct myself in a professional manner in my appearance, demeanor and language at all times, whether spoken or written.
Collaboration – I pledge to support a climate of respectful collaboration within our health sciences university and health care communities. To reach my potential as an interprofessional team member, I will strive to trust, challenge, engage and grow. I will respect my fellow students, their programs of study, and their contribution to the health care team while always interacting in a considerate and cooperative manner. I will recognize opposing viewpoints and seek to resolve conflicts in a manner that preserves the dignity of all involved. With collaboration in education, I will strive to develop the competencies to enhance the quality of health care through team-based, interprofessional practice.
Inclusiveness – I pledge to support a culture of inclusiveness, respect and understanding of all members of the academic and health care communities. I realize that a diverse and inclusive educational community impacts my ability to serve the health care needs of an increasingly diverse society when I am a practicing professional. Furthermore, I accept my ethical responsibility to work to eliminate health disparities and to contribute to improved medical outcomes for disadvantaged populations. I will not discriminate, nor will I tolerate discrimination on any basis, but rather, I will strive to promote understanding and acceptance.