Being a nurse is something to be proud of! Why not show the world you are part of “America’s Most Trusted Profession” with a tattoo? Take a look at our 10 ideas for nurse tattoos.
Tattoos have become more popular over the years. Gone are the days when tattoos were associated with criminals and deviant behavior. Today, people from all walks of life are sporting tattoos – including nurses.
If you’re a nurse or nursing student considering a tattoo, seek out designs that represent the meaning and values of the nursing profession. For inspiration, think about the history of nursing, tools used by nurses, or the types of things nurses encounter throughout their day-to-day duties.
Other things to consider include your workplace policies regarding tattoos, where to put your tattoo, and cost.
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Tattoo Ideas
- Caduceus Symbol
- Stethoscope
- Nursing Cap
- Heart Rhythm
- Oil Lamp
- Red Cross
- Superhero
- Word Tattoo
- Syringe
- Nurse
Caduceus Symbol
This is one of the most recognized, and popular, symbols in nursing. It’s often used as a label on different types of nursing equipment and nursing uniforms. Composed of a staff entwined by two serpents, a tattoo of the caduceus will most likely give you immediate recognition as a nurse and a sense of pride in your profession.
Stethoscope
No, stethoscopes aren’t just for doctors! Nurses also use them daily and they’re a popular tattoo choice for representing the nursing profession.
Nursing Cap
Another highly recognized symbol associated with nursing. While only designed to be part of a female nurse’s uniform, the nursing cap is deeply rooted in the history of nursing and still seen today as part of the identity of being a nurse.
Heart Rhythm
Even though the image of a heart rhythm can be associated with many healthcare professions, it’s often associated with nursing. Nurses learn about heart rhythms during their college education. Monitoring heart rhythms and knowing when to intervene are essential components of the day-to-day activities for many nurses.
Oil Lamp
The oil lamp is known internationally as another representation of the rich history of nursing and is closely associated with Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Nightingale worked selflessly and tirelessly to care for wounded soldiers during the Crimean war. She was known to carry a small lamp when checking on patients throughout the night.
Nursing schools today still use the “Lighting the Lamp Ceremony” as part of honoring Nightingale during nursing student graduation programs.
Red Cross
Like Florence Nightingale, Jane Delano was also a leading pioneer of the modern nursing profession. Delano is known for being the founder of the American Red Cross Nursing Service.
The Red Cross is often seen on hospitals, ambulances, and nursing uniforms. Historically the sign was used to identify nurses and other healthcare professionals during times of war and meant “don’t shoot” or “I’m here to help.”
Superhero
With the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses were recognized as the superheroes they are! Many nurses showed their creativity with tattoos depicting highly recognizable superheroes combined with elements of nursing.
Word Tattoo
Some people like to keep it simple. If that’s you, consider getting a tattoo of the word “nurse” or “RN.” If that seems a little too plain, you can always incorporate some of the other ideas listed above, such as the caduceus.
Nurse
If you want to go all out, there are plenty of full-arm, colorful, and very detailed tattoo designs of nurses. These can range from creepy (below), to humorous, to serious. Get creative and show off your personality!
Syringe
Another tool used daily by nurses. Patients are often unable to take medications by mouth or require a medication that can only be given intravenously. Syringes filled with saline are also used for cleaning surgical incisions or abrasions.
Can nurses get tattoos?
Absolutely! Just be sure you are aware of your workplace policies on tattoos. Information on tattoos is most likely located in an organization’s dress code policy, so be sure to check it out or ask about it. Policies in different organizations may vary, with some allowing tattoos to be visible and others requiring tattoos to be covered. Same goes for students. Check your nursing school’s dress code policy about tattoos. Also note that your nursing school’s policy may differ from healthcare organizations where you might be placed for clinical rotations, so you need to be aware of both.
Where should you place your tattoo?
You want to make sure that your tattoo flows with the body, so placement depends on your tattoo design, detail, and size. For nurses, it is especially important to consider visibility since many organizations will ask you to keep tattoos covered. So, consider smaller designs and areas like your ankle, foot, upper arm, or other places that will be covered by your uniform.
How much do tattoos cost?
Much like placement, cost will also depend on the design, detail, and size. Full blown arm tattoos, or sleeves, can cost up to $6,000. Smaller designs, like the word tattoo or oil lamp examples, can range from $50 to $250. Prices for anything in between may range from $300 to $1,300. You also need to consider the hourly rate of the tattoo artist. Again, for nurses, it might be best to get a smaller design if you need your uniform to cover the tattoo.
Next steps
Tattoos for nurses are a great way to show your pride in the nursing profession! Now that you’ve seen some examples, you need to do your homework. Check out several salons in your area and read the reviews. Also take time to visit different salons to meet the artists and note the cleanliness of the environment.
Finally, you’re ready to make your appointment and get inked!
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Sources
“Florence Nightingale.” womenshistory.org. Accessed May 11, 2022.
“Gallup: Nurses are Most Trusted Profession for 20th Straight Year.” nursing.yale.edu. Accessed May 11, 2022.
“Jane Delano.” redcross.org. Accessed May 11, 2022.
“Lamp Lighting Ceremony.” nursingandhealth.asu.edu. Accessed May 11, 2022.
