Student nurses are required to complete hands-on clinical rotations with ill and hospitalized patients. Proper immunizations can help to protect the student nurse from contracting diseases such as measles, hepatitis and others.
Depending on the school, student nurses must have proof of the immunizations MMR (mumps, measles and rubella), TD (tetanus/diphtheria), Varicella (chicken pox vaccine or proof of the illness), Hepatitis-B series and possibly an annual Influenza vaccine.
Immunizations must be identified via a medical history record or doctor's note. Typically, nursing schools require the name of the vaccine, date that it was given and signature of the student's physician.
Most nursing school's have strict policies surrounding proof of immunization. Students who don't comply with these policies may be restricted from participating in any hands-on clinical activity. This may make the student ineligible for graduation and professional licensure.