Got accepted to Nursing school...but I want a tattoo :(

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So a few weeks ago I got the notice that I was accepted to a nursing program at the local CC (which apparently is extremely competitive). I've started working on getting everything finished (forms and other stuff I need to get done). The thing is I want a tattoo haha. I'd like an ambigram on my wrist. Not sure exactly what to get, but I was thinking of the ambigram that says angel, and when you read it upside down it says devil...or I could completely get something else. I just don't want this tattoo to ruin everything and keep me from getting hired? :( The last time I went to the ER, the male nurse that was with me had a big tattoo on his forearm, so maybe its ok. I just wanted to know how the hospitals that you all work at take it? Is it something thats frowned upon, or do they not care? Should I wait until I graduate and get hired first and then get it? lol. blaah. I'm just talking too much now. Hope some of you could let me know how your facility takes tattoos.

I personally don't mind tatoos, though I'll probably never get one. Having said that, I don't think they look very professional when they are in places that aren't covered (wrist would fit that mold). The tatoo is a cute idea, however I think if you do it now you'll regret it later. Definitely wait. BTW- I'm a metal chick too... man I could bang my head back in the day. ;)

I do plan to cover it though :) That's why I'd rather have it on my wrist. I don't want it to be a big tattoo either, so it could probably be covered with a watch. You're right about regretting it though, so I'll think of more ideas too! Metal is a way life ;) \m/

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Specializes in pediatric.

I have a tattoo on my right wrist and I got it during nursing school. I LOVE IT. What's great about this is that my tattoo is small enough so that my watch covers it! And I only wear my watch at work and its always on my right wrist.

Go for it, as long as you can cover it up!!

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Specializes in Educator/ICU/OB.

I am a Nursing Instructor, and I always tell my nursing students.....if you have to ask, you probably shouldn't do it.;)

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I have a tattoo on my right wrist and I got it during nursing school. I LOVE IT. What's great about this is that my tattoo is small enough so that my watch covers it! And I only wear my watch at work and its always on my right wrist.

Go for it, as long as you can cover it up!!

That's great! Dang. What about the healing process? That didn't get in the way of clinicals and stuff?

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Specializes in jack of all trades.

I have a full back and working on a 1/2 sleeve. Have been an RN for 30 years now in various settings from Floor to being a DON. I am still in management and also cover for my staff when needed. When in school you will need to cover it up more than likely and I would advise if you do get one be sure it's what you really want and not because you feel left out. Maybe get it in an area easy to cover at least till you graduate. Long sleeves can be killer when your running your tail off even in air conditioning lol. Remember it's there for life. I made some mistakes in what I got and now in process of doing a full back coverup. It's never held me back in this profession but I dont advertise my ink at work and I definitely never allowed them to show during an interview. Yeah 1st impressions can stink but it's a fact of life. Granted it's becoming more acceptable but you still have those people who label very quickly by appearances although most of the time inaccurate. Some of the best nurses I have ever worked with have ink and metal.

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Specializes in pediatric.

I got my tat in June of 08...i think it was a cpl weeks before my first med-surg rotation...so I lucky had enough time for it to recover =)

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I got my tat in June of 08...i think it was a cpl weeks before my first med-surg rotation...so I lucky had enough time for it to recover =)

Oh that's awesome! Thanks!

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Specializes in LTC.

If it is something your watch or a bandaid can cover up, there is no reason not to get it.

Otherwise get something on another part of your body.

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Specializes in Operating Room Nursing.

My only advice is to have it done in henna first and see if you can live with it first. Wish I did that.

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My only advice is to have it done in henna first and see if you can live with it first. Wish I did that.

Great idea! Why didn't I think of this!? I will do that :) Thanks for the idea!

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Red, you need to seriously ask your self if a " devil, angel" wrist tattoo is crucial to filling a critical gap in your life or a necessary activity on the journey to self actualization. If not, perhaps reconsider forestalling and/or an alternate location?

This is a highly visible area and having a nursing license and heart beat will not guarantee employment. You will need to make sure you can stack the cards in your favour. This tattoo may or may not be a deal breaker. While I personally do not care about tattoos, others in positions to make the decision to hire may think otherwise.

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Either wait until you are someplace and you feel comfortable or get one that can easily be covered. Unfortunately you never know how people will view/react and it's better to be safe than sorry.

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