Help: Tattoo Ideas!!

As a big admirer of tattoos, unlike some who have responded, I'll try and offer advice. Mainly, don't rush into anything. Really research what you want and more importantly who you want to do it. Good tattoos are not cheap and become a real time commitment.

However, in the end, you can truly get a piece of art that anyone will appreciate. I have had nothing but positives from patients who notice mine. It's an excellent ice breaker and conversation starter during a time when you see people that are extremely anxious or at their worst. Plus, if you're really worried about it, put your lab coat on. Your demeanor and professionalism will speak for itself and no one will think any less of you if you have a tattoo.

Sure there will be a small segment of the population, more than likely not born in this century, that will not like tattoos. However, they have probably never seen a good one. There are artists out there can mimic the beauty of a priceless piece of art displayed in a museum. So, what is difference between it being displayed on a wall canvas or your arm? I dare these individuals to say they have never admired a painting and the such.

I would like to start my second sleeve incorporating Hypnos and the AANA seal, Morpheus, Death, Saint Rene, with background use of poppy and other elements. Just tossing some ideas out there for you. Where are you from? Maybe I can help you find a reputable artist within your area? Hope this helps.

Chris

Well, I was born in this century and I don't think that tattoos are a good idea. I don't like to see exposed tattoos when I have a person taking care of me whether a waiter or a professional (especially). I will not hire a CRNA who has exposed tattoos. It is not professional. Buck the system and do what you want, but remember the opinion of the person giving you the job as well as the client is what is truly important if you want to make a living. Period.

I better apply for unemployment now then. So, hire me or pay my welfare through your taxes...
just kidding

Not hiring someone over a tattoo is kinda like saying an asian guy would be good at math or an african american guy is good at basketball etc. Very stereotypical and quite discriminatory. However, since we live in this great called the United States, everyone is entitled to their opinion. I'm just saying it can be done tastefully and you can remain professional if you have them. Plus, you'd be surprised who has them under their "professional" attire. I can play the part too. You'd never know I had them...until it's too late. I'm not saying go get a piece on your face a la Mike Tyson. If you did something ridiculous like that, then you're just asking for it. It can be done in a way that isn't a sign of rebellion, attention seeking, or mental illness. Stay warm out there (if you're from around here)

If the tats are not showing, it does not come into the discussion at all. It is no ones business. And therefore does not interfere. Private is just that. Keep your privates, private.
And thanks for the "keep warm" but its so hot here! It's 85! Santa Ana winds!
Now I have to go to Disneyland for a conference! Believe it or not, I'm forcing myself to go!

WOW. i couldnt subject my eyes to read all 6pages, but i wanted to thank you guys for putting this all out there. im pretty tattooed (ive got about got about 40hrs of work on my body. i also have 1' holes in my ears and took out most of my piercings when i started nursing school)... none of my tattoos are offensive but i understand that many patients will react differently when one walks into their room with it all out there. yes i cover up for interviews, yes i had to cover up for school & yes, i hope that one day i dont have to cover up for work. i know that it can ultimately be 1. a distraction and 2. for lack of better words, a turnoff to prospective patients, particularly in the hospital where care is short term. ive had experiences in clinical with older (80-90 y/o) pts that when i was bathcing them & sweating my face off, asked me why i was wearing long sleeves. when i told them i had to because im covered in tattoos, they asked to see them & one lady said "honey when youre as old as me & your skin looks like sh-t, no one will care what you had drawn on it..." BUT not everyone feels that way. i also had an older lady tell me i was going to hell for what ive done to my body. at a gas station. its not fair that we can be judged on appearance... but we are. by race, sex, and everything else. yes, tattoos are a choice, but it doesnt make someone a bad person. however, its our responsibility to do our jobs- no matter what they are- and if i need to wear long sleeves to do that, im willing to do so. i made this choice, but it still sucks having to hide this huge part of myself because of how someone will react. hopefully one day, before im retired, people will see past it.