The simple answer is yes. A tattoo is unlikely to disqualify you from working as a nurse, though there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Depending on your place of work, there may be rules about the types of tattoos and visibility restrictions, but these can vary greatly from place to place.
As a general rule of thumb, tattoos in the medical field are allowed, but some exceptions exist. For example, most medical facilities will prohibit a visible nurse tattoo that portrays any type of offensive imagery.
Yes, you absolutely can have tattoos if you work in the healthcare industry.
As a nursing student, you are typically asked to cover up tattoos (you can cover your arms with long sleeve underscrubs if you have tattoos on your arms), but usually tattoos are pretty well accepted once you're through school, have passed your NCLEX, and are a nurse. At least that has been my experience.
They are typically not allowed to perform sterile wound care, assess wounds, or administer medications, including topical treatments that require a nurse's judgment. These tasks require the advanced training and clinical judgment of RNs or LPNs.
Common Disqualifications at a Glance
Felonies, violent crimes, theft, abuse, or repeated substance abuse. Incomplete fingerprints or false application information. History of patient abuse or being listed on an abuse registry. Failing to complete the required 160 training hours.
California: $52,881 per year.
In California, besides doctors, only physician assistants and registered nurses can perform laser tattoo removal - as long as they're under a doctor's supervision. Cosmetologists, electrologists and estheticians cannot perform it at all.
There is no law forbidding teachers from having tattoos. However, there is also no legislation protecting inked educators from discrimination. Each school district or private institution has the right to set its own dress code policies. Tattoos fall within that code of conduct.
Yes, California employers can ask employees to cover tattoos and piercings. Employers can even refuse to hire potential employees with tattoos or piercings.
Tattoos are generally accepted in the workplace as long as they're not offensive, unprofessional or distracting. However, visible tattoos may not be appropriate for every profession. Even if your company allows body art, you may find that customers or coworkers discriminate against tattooed employees.
Negligence or misconduct: CNAs and STNAs are responsible for providing care and support to patients, and any negligence or misconduct that jeopardizes their safety or well-being can lead to termination.
Makeup, if worn, should be applied in moderation. False eyelashes are not permitted. Perfume, aftershave, cologne, and scented lotions should not be worn.
Healthcare organizations conduct CNA background checks to confirm that prospective applicants have the required qualifications and do not have any problematic issues, including patient abuse, certain criminal convictions, drug abuse, or thefts on their records.
Tattoos are a personal choice, but they must be considered in the context of patient care and workplace policies. Nurses may need to adapt their appearance based on employer requirements. This could involve covering them during work hours or choosing less conspicuous locations for new ones.
On average, a tattoo takes two to four weeks to heal. However, it takes about three to six months for the skin underneath the tattoo to fully heal. 12 This time depends on specific skin reactions, tattoo size, and ink colors used.
There's no definitive rule against it, but most doctors advise waiting until after baby has made their big debut. There's a host of potential consequences to consider with tattoos and pregnancy, so you'll want to think long and hard before making a permanent and potentially risky decision.
Some Common Body Art Policies For Nurses:
No tattoos above the collar or below the elbow allowed.
In many states, performing laser tattoo removal typically requires certification as a laser technician or laser operator. These certifications often involve completing a training program that covers laser safety, skin anatomy, tattoo removal techniques, and proper equipment operation.
The Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health advises against pregnant or breastfeeding moms getting tattooed. And while there is no evidence to suggest a newly tattooed mom's breast milk poses a risk to her baby, the possibility of mom contracting an infection is a major area of concern.
It is possible to live off a CNA salary in the USA. However, it depends on your lifestyle and where you live. To make ends meet, you may need to make sacrifices, such as living in a smaller home or apartment. You can also look for CNA jobs that offer benefits, like health insurance and retirement savings plans.
A nationwide study found that 55% of health care workers feel burned out. For nurses specifically, the long shifts, constant pressure, and lack of support from leadership are just a few factors contributing to their chronic stress and compassion fatigue.