Wrist tattoo; bad idea?

2k15NurseExtern4u, BSN, RN · Jan 12, 2014

Why not just get it on your torso or somewhere less noticeable than your wrist? I don't think it is very wise to go through with this tattoo.

mrsboots87 · Jan 12, 2014

I would advise against it. There are some facilities that are more lenient, and will either allow small visible tattoos or the use of bandages to cover them. But some facilities are super strict and may or may not even want a bandaid covered tat. FOr example, in my area there is a hospital chain that is one of the best places to work. Many nurses dream to work in their facilities. They are super strict. No visible tattoos. They can be bandaged if a small part of one shows through just out of a shirt, but they do not like standalone visible tats. Like wrist, behind ear, on neck etc. It is not formally stated, but basically if there are 10 Rns applying for one position, then any with visible tattoos will be placed at the bottom of the list for consideration. I agree with getting it somewhere else if you want this specific tattoo.

MrChicagoRN, RN · Jan 12, 2014

No, no, no

That's really too large to easily cover, and the bandage will get wet every time you wash your hands.

and do you really want to have to work every day with your wrist covered?

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Jan 12, 2014

While I don't mid body mods as a general rule....I am curious why you choose to do this now. You are planning to pierce your ears and place spacers this summer. You now want a tattoo. Why not wait until you are established with a job and your RN? What is the hurry? Why take the chance? Some facilities won't like them nor let them. I think of spacers in nursing as a point of attack from a patient to rip my ear.

I just think your body mods should wait until after you graduate school...how may nurses do you see with body mods? How visible are they in the staff around you? Maybe there is a reason you don't see them is that they violate dress code in many facilities. Is that right? Maybe not....it is what it is.

Burno · Jan 12, 2014

You raise a fair point. The reason I waited until now is exactly the reason you're pushing; basic establishment. I've actually met numerous nurses during my rotations with both spaced ears, and visible tattoos. I suppose the difference here, though, is that they already have the job and I don't.

amoLucia · Jan 12, 2014

Hey, even the military is changing its rules on tats - and not favorably either!

catladyRN · Jan 13, 2014

A have a wrist tattoo and many other "visible" ones. I work for a larger hospital network and policy is that tattoos are to be covered unless covering it would lead to infection control issues. So a few of mine show when my sleeves are rolled up and I've never had any complaints. I also always wear long sleeves to interviews so potential employers never see my body art. Make sure it's something you really want and do what makes you happy.

sallyrnrrt, ADN, RN · Jan 13, 2014

dont do it, trust me, as a director that hires, you would not he considered, is that fair, possibly not, but it is a fact of life .....sorry

HappyWife77, BSN, RN · Jan 13, 2014

Yes, bad idea. Please don't do it at the beginning of your journey. You'll have plenty of time later....and who knows, you might have different desires in five years. What appeals to you now could change later. You are still developing into the person you are going to be.

Best wishes!

Burno · Jan 13, 2014

Thanks everyone. It's decided; no visible tattoos. I know I'd certainly be kicking myself if I missed out on my dream job 5 years down the road due to getting a tattoo.

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Jan 13, 2014

Once you are established it will probably be better. Your reputation will be established. But for right now I think you made the best decision. :up: