If you're a nurse with tattoos, you might be wondering if your ink will limit your job prospects. Fear not! The world of nursing is becoming more accepting of body art, but there are still some factors to consider. Read on for everything you need to know about nurses and tattoos.
The Past
Historically, visible tattoos were seen as unprofessional in many workplaces including healthcare settings. In fact, many hospitals had strict policies against visible tattoos or required them to be covered up while on the job.
But times have changed drastically since then! Tattoos have become much more mainstream and accepted across all industries including healthcare. Many younger professionals today aren't even phased by someone having a full sleeve tattoo or colorful hair!
Present
Nowadays, many organizations don't put restrictions on employees with visible tattoos - especially small ones that aren't offensive or disruptive.
But What About Nursing?
While we can say that society has become more tolerant towards people who choose to ink themselves permanently using needles... nursing culture does vary depending on location and workplace environment.
Hospital Policies
Despite advancements regarding visible ink in general jobs - hospital dress codes can still require varying levels of tattoo coverage depending on facility policy & preferences... though this isn’t always strictly enforced!
Some facilities even permit exposed tats within reason like solely allowing single discreet designs such behind the ears or religious symbols which make little-to-no impact when it comes to patient interaction.
However; During work hours; It'll ultimately fall upon what management decides is appropriate for their establishment/branding/marketing purposes/etc.
Professionalism vs Image Consciousness
It's possible that maintaining a professional appearance could influence how others perceive one's knowledge & abilities particularly within staff/patient relations where image-consciousness matters e.g public service contracts sometimes prefer non-tattooed appearances...
Cultural Acceptance
Culture can also determine a workplace's stance on tattoos. Depending on location and the community; certain populations may have different levels of acceptance for visible ink. If you're someone who loves tattoos that might be less commonly perceived positively in your locale or country.. it could negatively impact the perspective nurse candidates receive from potential employers. Given this, one should evaluate how comfortable they are with their tattoo choices alongside possible day-to-day judgement from those sharing their environment.
# The Tattoo & Its Placement
As mentioned if you do decide to get a tattoo as a nurse ….it is recommended that it’s discrete/hidden somewhere during activities at work so even if there isn’t strict enforcement around policy e.g covering all....having some flexibility on placement can help ensure career continuity! Whether this means putting small designs over commonly covered areas like the back of your neck...or larger pieces in places easily concealed by clothing….keep in mind features such as sizing need consideration too!
Also to remember……the healing process takes time based upon design technique and going without covering it up before complete recuperation can risk infection transmission towards patients.
Other Factors Affecting Nurse Hiring
Overall though, we will note after all research available - having an exposed but tasteful tattoo is unlikely to interfere with landing any job position as nurses continue growing more manageable within medical establishments yearly! It just depends!
So getting hired effectively boils down ultimately upon nursing experience,qualifications,and demonstration of important soft skills when interacting with hospital patients/co-workers such honesty,respectfulness,and compassion which earn trust rather than what kind or how many tats someone has.
Interview Process and Hiding Tattoos
During interviews however / hiding them temporarily until after being hired / styling hair/makeup conservative manners appealing toward chain-of command reinforces hiring managers' perception of dependability,societal intelligence albeit not necessary (consider Tia Mowry); awareness plays smart favor!
Famous Example: Amy Black
Speaking of tatts….it's worth to mention the talented tattooist named Amy Black who specializes in creating post-surgery tattoos. A majority of her clients are women who have undergone mastectomies and want to cover their scars with beautiful, custom designs.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let's give a shout-out to Amy Black and all the other artists out there using their skills for good!
Conclusion
So can nurses have tattoos? Absolutely! While it may be necessary to cover up during work hours depending on facility policy or location regulations... having visible ink shouldn't impact your job prospects as long as one satisfies basic dress code requirements.
Just remember that maintaining a professional appearance both physically & attitude-wise plays into how others will treat you on any given working day.
All in all.. we're happy that we live in an era where body art has become more accepted than ever before- being individualistic should never come at the cost of following passion-filled careers like nursing!