Tattooed Nurse?

[rnrnewgrad]

Hi, I am graduating in May and have already begun applying for new graduate med-surg positions. I am prepared to dress professionally to interview (of course), as well as research each company be ready to answer difficult questions, ask questions, and thank each interviewer for their time. I always wonder how to deal with the issue of my tattoos no matter what type of position I have sought in the past but especially now. So my question is, do I bring the subject up myself? Do I keep them hidden through the hiring process and slowly surprise them later (my usual tactic)... Just wondered if anyone had any advice?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Hmmm - I think that depends on where, how big and the subject matter. If they are small, discreet and of a neutral subject matter, than fine. However, if they are sleeves, questionable subject matter then I would continue to cover them.

I have worked with several staff in various places and it depended on the facility. One hospital I worked at required that tatoos be completely covered while working. They also did not allow more than one ear piercing per ear and no other visible piercings, including tongue.

Other facilities aren't as strict. I would find out the rules prior to interviewing for your own knowledge. Good luck.

[Ariesbsn]

I would just keep them covered, regardless of size or subject matter. I have 2 tattoos and unless I am in a bathing suit or topless (2 things that NEVER happen at work) you can't see them. I did that on purpose. For some reason, people can have a very strong reaction to the fact that you have them, regardless of the subject matter.

[RN BSN 2009]

I think it would depend on the location of the tatoos

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

the most professional thing to do would be keep them covered and keep them undercover. no one at work needs to see them -- not your employer, not your co-worker and not your patients. if you happen to be having drinks after work with the gang, ok for show and tell with the tats. otherwise, keep 'em hidden.

[kimmie518]

I've also had trouble with the situation.

I don't quite understand the term "professional" but I like to keep mine completely covered for a while until people know me and the competency in my skills (some people believe that since you have tattoo's you are not intelligent/lack skills). Then after a couple of months, I really don't care who see's them (I'm not going out of my way to show them off or cover them up).

I would see what the hospital's policy is, and conform to that. I wouldn't necessary ask directly about yourself in the interview- you might give your future DON a bad perception of yourself.

[Snugglibumkins]

I'd keep them covered during the interview. Not for reasons of 'hiding' them. But for reasons of being professional - you want to draw attention to the fact that you are the right person for the job. Similar to when we sold our home, we took down a lot of memorable stuff like pictures of my husband at different military stations because people spent more time looking/thinking about that than looking/thinking about the 'right fit'.

After getting the job offer, I'm sure you'll get a briefing on dress code. Most hospitals address tattooos and piercings, make-up, nails, etc in the dress code.

[nursedawn67, LPN]

I have 4 tattoos, one on each arm and one on each leg and in my uniform that cannot be seen. I would just keep them covered, but you shouldn't have to point yours out if they can be covered.

[SDS_RN, RN]

I have one tattoo and am thinking of getting another one but the one I do have is always covered and I don't think that anyone I work with even knows I have one. At my facility they have to be covered and we also can't have piercings other than the ears no tongue, nose, lip, or eyebrow rings they have to be taken out when your at work.

[jlcole45]

You have to think about what it looks like to the typical older patient in the hospital. Large tattoos can give the wrong impression and this can be scary for them. Historically they are associated with folks who run with the rough crowds or who have done time.

Tattoos do look unprofessional and it doesn't matter how artistic they are. Remember your patients won't necessarily have to time to get to know you and how great a nurse you will be. They only

will have that first impression and that's what they will probably judge you by.

Play it straight and ask after you've received a job offer what the policy is on tattoos. That way there's no misunderstanding later on.

Remember the job of a nurse is to take care of patients. It's not about us showing off our personal taste in tattoos.

Good luck

[Diary/Dairy, RN]

Keep em covered up - almost every hospital I have worked at has had it written into the policy that tattoos must be covered -

I have had at least one complaint when my tattoos were uncovered. Until they are mainstream, I will be keeping mine covered while @ work.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

I would say that if you're concerned that they are so unwelcome that you'd hide them in the interview, then if hired, you hide them at work as well.

If you're planning on exposing them at work, then expose them during the interview.