Point Loma Nazarene University cares for its students. Therefore, when medical emergencies arise that impede the ability of the student to function in relation to academics and/or community policies and procedures are implemented that will offer protection both for the student and the PLNU community at large. Procedures are designed to develop support systems, simplify re-entry into the institution, and provide structure during a stressful event. Professional staff will work with students, community medical providers, and family members when the following policy is enacted.

In the event of a serious physical or mental health crisis or diagnosis, the University may place a student on a voluntary or involuntary leave of absence and/or withdraw a student from the University when the student:

• Engages or threatens to engage in behavior which poses a danger of causing harm to self or others.
• Engages or threatens to engage in behavior which could cause significant damage to property or which significantly impedes other students’ study or sleep.
• Engages in behavior that creates a health (physical or mental) risk or major disruption in a living or study environment.
• Experiences catastrophic illness or injury, which precludes completion of course work.
• Appears unable to care for his/her basic Activities of Daily Living (i.e. bathing, dressing, personal hygiene, feeding, shaving, brushing teeth, preparing meals and snacks).

Examples of the above may include but are not limited to: eating disorders, severe depression, suicide attempt or talk, self-injury, auto accident, refusal of medical treatment during life threatening events, uncontrolled manic episodes, and diagnosis of cancer. When a student is withdrawn, medical clearance and a plan for supportive, local follow-up care will be required prior to readmission to the university. When it becomes necessary to implement this policy, an administrator from the department of Student Development will facilitate the following steps:

• A student’s parent(s), guardian(s), or spouse will be contacted to provide support for the student.
• The department of Academic Affairs and current professors will be notified of student’s status.
• With the approval of the professor an “I” (Incomplete) may be recorded for the student’s grade. The student will be required to personally contact each professor to complete the requirements of each course as soon as the student is able.
• An “AW” (Administrative Withdrawal) will be recorded for student’s grades. In this event, the student will receive no credit for these courses. GPA will not be penalized.