Have you given much thought to tattoos and working as a travel nurse? If you have no plans to get one, it may not seem relevant to your career. However, there's a good chance that you may work with other nurses who do while on assignment. So, whether you're contemplating getting inked yourself or have a co-worker who is struggling with the visibility of his or her tattoo, there are some things to keep in mind.
Tattoo or no
There are a number of reasons for which people choose to get tattoos, but it's important that the life-long decision is well thought out. Although you may view it as a reminder of a loved one or a significant event in your life, it may be the difference between some patients viewing you as a good rather than great nurse. In fact, a study conducted by professionals at a rural Maryland hospital and published in the American Journal of Nursing, took a look to see just what patients' attitudes toward both piercings and tattoos were.
Specifically, the researchers looked at 150 patients who were older than 46 years. After being shown computer images of both male and female nursing professionals who were wearing scrubs, they were asked to classify each individual using a number of terms, including caring, confident, reliable, attentive, professional and approachable. Some of the photos were of individuals with tattoos and/or piercings, while others had neither.
Twenty-two percent of those who took part in the observations even had tattoos themselves. Results indicated that males with tattoos are often viewed less positively than those without. Additionally, females who had tattoos were rarely seen in a positive light. As a result, the authors of the study suggested for healthcare agencies to review their policies on personnel displaying tattoos. So, what does someone working as a travel nursing professional do if he or she would like to get a tattoo?
Before heading to a parlor, consider what you are getting a tattoo of. If it's something that you truly want – and will not regret in the future – go ahead. Just keep in mind the placement of your art. Since you'll be wearing scrubs to work, you know which areas of your body will be exposed on a daily basis. So, consider picking an area in which you are certain patients will not be able to view the tattoo. This will ensure that you are in line with the facility's handbook and prevent you from potentially being viewed in a negative light.
Working with tattoos
If you already have a tattoo, you may have to figure out how to work with it. In fact, a 2010 Pew Research report indicated that nearly 38 percent of people who were born between 1981 and 1991 have tattoos, so odds are that you won't be the only person dealing with the issue. This number is much higher when compared to those who are 45 and older, as only 15 percent of these individuals are tattooed. If the placement of yours is visible when wearing scrubs, it could prevent you from obtaining placement for a travel nursing assignment.
Still, you may have options to consider. Talk to someone within the medical staffing agency to find out if tattoo makeup to cover the ink is a viable option. Also, if you aren't working in a high temperature climate, you may be able to wear long-sleeve shirts underneath your uniform. Even if the travel nursing position you are working doesn't have rules and regulations for tattoo visibility, you may want to take precautions in covering yours up to ensure that patients are confident in your abilities to treat them.