Student With Tattoos...

RKpianoman, APRN · Jul 30, 2011

From observing the staff at different hospitals my school does clinicals with, it really depends on the hospital. There is one Catholic hospital that would probably not hire anyone with full sleeves. Another private religious hospital makes people cover theirs, wearing a long sleeved shirt under the scrub top is ok with them. And yet another hospital seems to not really care at all. I'd say, be prepared to keep it covered with long sleeves if at all possible; good luck!

~Mi Vida Loca~RN, ASN, RN · Jul 30, 2011

I would wear long sleeves during an interview so it's not even an issue. Our hospital has a policy they have to be covered up although not everyone follows it. But not covering it while trying to get the job can prevent you from getting it depending on the person conducting the interview.

mom22many · Jul 30, 2011

I work at a community hospital and many people have tattoos and sleeves no less, it will all depend on what community and hospital. We also have a policy on piercings but i have seen many co-workers, nurses, techs who wear their nose rings and multiple earrings!?!?!? good luck, during school we have to cover all tattoos and can only have 1 pair of studs.

ashleyisawesome, BSN, RN · Jul 30, 2011

just wear long sleeves to your interviews and be prepared to possibly have to wear long sleeves at work everyday too.. there are several people in my class with sleeves though and the instructors are all well aware of it and have never told them they wont be able to get a job.

Cas0880 · Jul 30, 2011

I have both arms, my back and chest done and I've always been told the same thing. We know what we have to do like wearing long sleeves, it just gets annoying to hear it. I just got hired at a catholic hospital full time n I just have to wear long sleeves no biggy but that just shows you don't worry just be professional and you won't have any problems :)

Lifeofanurse · Jul 31, 2011

You'll get a job. I can honestly say that I know many perfectly nice people who have full sleeves...but can also say that I judged them harshly until I knew them (my own character flaw). I would say the easiest thing to do is to keep it covered 100% of the time and don't vocalize the fact you have them unless specifically asked....and don't think that will happen. That way your judged by your actions..not your tattoo. Good luck.

Colleen84 · Aug 1, 2011

Thanks all! It' so relieveing to hear. I wasn't sure if long sleeves at work was an option. I will absolutely cover them. It makes me uncomfortable to make other's uncomfortable....and I know that for some people it's a turn off. That's the reality of it and I'm comfortable with that. I'm glad to hear it's not an impossible situation.