Not your normal tattoo thread

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Specializes in critical care.

Two of my medical conditions (a neurological condition that is exasperated by sleeplessness, and now my spinal fusion) have been a bit of a nuisance and could be an issue in the future. Mostly it's the epilepsy that I'm concerned about. Twice EVER it has impaired me, changing my mental status.

(before responses get icky - I've been tightly supervised and plans are in place to keep things safe and seizure free. It was a 2 week run of insomnia that caused the second episode. First episode was from a medication.)

So, I have noticed the ones who recognize the atypical presentation of left temporal lobe epilepsy is those who work in the medical field. If I can't speak for myself, I need to communicate that it may be epilepsy causing the problem. Plus, it could be a good thing to mention the titanium.

I'm thinking inner forearm. One saying "left temporal lobe epilepsy" and one saying "fusion L5/S1 spondylolisthesis". I could find some compression sleeves (or those adorable scrub sleeves) to ensure patients don't get weirded out by it. (Amazing how terrifying the work 'epilepsy' is to most people.)

I want to prevent a disaster like something that happened months ago. I was in desperate need of a doctor but was sent home instead. No repeats of that, please!!! THIS is the situation I have not discussed here due to still pending litigation being possible.

Anyway, you've heard my "pros" and we know the professional cons. My facility does require cover up. I think I'm allowed one inch visible.

What are your thoughts? I need help deciding on this.

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Specializes in Oncology (OCN).

Forgive me for asking the obvious, have you considered a medical alert bracelet?

I keep saying I need to get one, but I have yet to do it.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

First responders are trained to search for medic alert jewelry then ICE/medical info in phone (iPhone has a medical alert button that can be accessed even if your phone is locked. You choose what to enter)

i prefer medic alert to others as it's customizable and they will fax your record to the ED when called.

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Specializes in GENERAL.
Forgive me for asking the obvious, have you considered a medical alert bracelet?

I keep saying I need to get one, but I have yet to do it.

Cricket you are so polite when you ask if the OP has considered a medical alert bracelet. Problem solved, right?

In the South that same suggestion/concern would go like this: " bless your heart but have you considered a medical alert bracelet? " Problem solved with a little extra heartfelt concern, right?

But OP, you've got to admit, the tattoo idea was simply one of those "bless your heart" moments without a doubt. Right?

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Specializes in ICU, LTACH, Internal Medicine.

From personal experience (allergy/anaphylaxis):

- first place first responders ALWAYS search is MediAlert (bracelet or necklace)

- second place, wallet card. Optimally, in an exterior pocket or directly opposing driver's license, full view as soon as wallet is open.

Everything else, comes distant third, if ever.

Accordingly, I bought plain band MediAlert bracelet. It has, actually, very little place for engraving but enough for what you suggest. I would be doubtful that "fusion" needs to be mentioned, though. Should something happens, there will be quick but very full skin exam in ER, the scars will be noticed, and you wouldn't be sent automatically for MRI scan.

Only one case I do remember the whole team collectively blessing the tattoo idea was with a guy who went into heart arrest on street and was found to have huge "pads here" tats over right side of his chest. He was a classic "mirror man" and knew it.

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ixchel - I am also pro medic alert bracelet and wallet card. It is less intrusive and limiting as a tattoo - plus what if something changes or the neurologist adds something ? In that case you can not just cross it out or amend easily.

I think your concerns are ligit and it would worry me as well - so it is good to find a way to convey information about your health in case you are unable to do so - the medic alert bracelets/jewelry are well known. There are also different options for that.

I had coworkers with medic alert bracelets because of blood thinners, anaphylaxis and such and it was not a problem.

Epilepsy carries a stigma and I am not sure that you want accidental exposure of that illness.

There are specific concerns with temporal lobe epilepsy as the presentation is not like the "usual" seizure - if you go back to work it is probably best to discuss everything with your neurologist and occupational health. There are some pros and cons about cluing in the charge nurse about your symptoms or other coworkers as it can also result in stigma.

Not easy - sorry you are dealing with it!

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Specializes in ICU.

As a fellow epileptic, I would get a bracelet. I wore one years ago when my seizures were very active. I haven't had one for a while now.

Make sure you take care of yourself. If you need a nap during the day, take one. I battle insomnia myself so I know how hard it can be.

I don't know if a tat is the way to go as others have mentioned. Nobody thinks to look for them.

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