Purpose: This policy is designed to ensure that Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) students who are pregnant are supported, provided with appropriate accommodations, and protected under applicable legal guidelines, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions.
Policy Overview
The program recognizes that pregnancy is a temporary condition and aims to support pregnant students while ensuring their academic and clinical success. This policy provides guidelines for notifying the program, requesting accommodations, and ensuring student health and safety.
Legal Compliance
The program adheres to all applicable laws and regulations, including:
- Title IX: Prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy and requires institutions to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant students.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Applies in cases where pregnancy-related conditions qualify as a temporary disability.
Notification Process
Voluntary Disclosure: Students are not required to disclose their pregnancy. If students choose to disclose their pregnancy, they are encouraged to notify the DMS Program Director as early as possible to provide necessary support and ensure a safe learning environment.
Documented Disclosure: Students disclosing pregnancy will meet with the DMS Program Director and complete the DMS Disclosure of Pregnancy Form.
Privacy and Confidentiality: All information related to a student’s pregnancy will be treated confidentially.
Accommodations
Students seeking accommodations must meet with the ADA Coordinator.
Program Interruptions
Students may choose to take time off from program requirements. The following policies inform and guide student progression in the program:
- Academic Leave of Absence Policy
- Financial Aid Student Leave of Absence Policy
- Medical Imaging Clinical Attendance Policy
Safety Guidelines
Clinical Environment: Pregnant students should, at a minimum:
- Wear appropriate protective equipment (e.g., lead aprons during procedures involving radiation).
- Avoid exposure to harmful substances and ensure adherence to safety protocols at clinical sites.
Health Monitoring: Students are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider to assess their ability to continue with program activities, particularly in physically demanding or potentially hazardous environments.
Responsibilities
Student Responsibilities
- Students choosing to disclose their pregnancy: Notify the program of pregnancy and request accommodations as needed.
- Comply with safety protocols and communicate concerns promptly.
Program Responsibilities
- Provide a supportive and non-discriminatory environment.
- Implement reasonable accommodations promptly.
- Ensure that clinical sites adhere to safety protocols for pregnant students.
College and Program Resources
- DMS Program Director
- ADA Coordinator
- Title IX Coordinator
Additional Student Information
- Students will be exposed to infectious diseases.
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography students may be exposed to ionizing radiation and wear a full lead apron (6-15 lbs.) for extended periods.
- Students may not register for classes until they have documented compliance with the immunization and background check requirements. Information on these requirements will be mailed after acceptance and is available upon request.
References
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS). (2017, February 8). Code of ethics for the professions of diagnostic medical sonography. https://www.sdms.org/about/who-we-are/code-of-ethics
Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS). (2023). Scope of practice and clinical standards for the diagnostic medical sonographer. https://www.sdms.org/docs/default-source/Resources/scope-of-practice-and-clinical-standards.pdf?sfvrsn=18