Nurses with tattoos??

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Okay, so I know for a fact that I want to be a nurse (likely pediatric.) I also know for a fact that I want to get a tattoo ( also please don't question this/tell me I shouldn't get one... Yes, I know that it's permanent. It is to honor my grandfather who passed away not too long ago, and I want it there forever.) I have been questioning where I should get it because I do not want it to impact my future career and/or the ability to get hired. I'm just curious what most hospital policies are for nurses and tattoos. Nurses with tattoos... Where are they/are they visible, and has this ever caused a problem?? (Also, my dream is to join the nurse residency program at Vanderbilt after I graduate from nursing school, so anyone with advice/ experience/knowledge regarding their policy on tattoos would be greatly appreciated!!) Basically, would a tattoo not covered by scrubs be a problem?? Thanks!!

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Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.

I have tattoos on my left & right wrist & a full sleeve on my right arm. It didn't stop me from getting a job. But I would look over the P&P of where you are applying before you get a visible tattoo.

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Awesome!!! Thank you!

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

Do a search of this site. There are dozens of posts regarding this. Where I work they are fine as long as they aren't offensive. One nurse has 2 sleeves.

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Thanks!!

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Specializes in LTC and Pediatrics.

Keep in mind that most nursing schools will have you cover up any visible tattoos for clinicals.

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

For your browsing pleasure:

https://allnurses.com/gsearch.php?cx=partner-pub-9350112648257122%3Avaz70l-mgo9&cof=FORID%3A10&ie=UTF-8&q=tattoos

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Thanks! I do realize that I'll have to cover it in nursing school.. I've already researched their policy. I don't really mind that, but I just don't want to have to cover it for the rest of my life.

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Where are you planning on getting it? I have a wrist tattoo that is conveniently covered by my watch or long sleeves in the winter. It does seem like every facility I have worked in days that you can't have them showing, but only 2 out of 4 have enforced that rule. They also say no piercings, but I haven't ever been asked to remove my teeny tiny silver nose ring.

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I would really like to get it on my forearm, but I've also considered the wrist because it's close to where I originally wanted it, but I feel like I could hide it easily enough (with a watch)....

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Specializes in Hospice.

Most places tolerate tattoos without issue .... If you want to be advanced practice I would put it where you can hide it

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