Relationships with patients:
Students in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Master of Science in Athletic Training Program are expected to maintain appropriate professional boundaries with all patients encountered during clinical education. Students must follow all applicable University of Nebraska–Lincoln policies, MSAT Program policies, clinical site policies, professional standards, and state laws governing professional conduct and patient relationships.
Individuals receiving services at University of Nebraska–Lincoln clinical education sites and affiliated clinical facilities are considered patients, regardless of whether they are student-athletes, students, employees, community members, or members of another patient population. Students should not initiate or maintain interactions with patients outside the clinical environment, either in person or through social media, text messaging, personal email, or other online platforms.
Personal relationships with patients beyond the professional patient-provider relationship may create an actual or perceived conflict of interest and compromise the student’s ability to provide objective, patient-centered care. Romantic, dating, sexual, or significant social relationships with patients are prohibited. Such relationships may violate professional ethical standards, clinical site policies, and applicable state laws or practice regulations.
Students are responsible for recognizing situations that may compromise professional boundaries. Any existing relationship, unexpected interaction, or potential conflict of interest involving a patient must be disclosed promptly to the student’s preceptor and the MSAT Coordinator of Clinical Education so that appropriate steps can be taken to protect the patient, the student, and the integrity of the clinical education experience.
Relationships with preceptors and staff:
- Dating relationships with University of Nebraska-Lincoln Athletic Training Program (UNL ATP) faculty, preceptors, and associated staff are prohibited and violate the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Faculty Code of Conduct which can be found online at: go.unl.edu/7vgs.
- Developing personal friendships and professional mentoring relationships with preceptors and staff is encouraged.
Interpersonal conflicts:
- Personal friendships among athletic training students are expected, and occasional dating relationships are anticipated, provided a professional environment is maintained.
- If conflicts arise between athletic training students, it is expected that the parties will resolve their differences among themselves or with the assistance of UNL ATP faculty.