What is it about?
The majority of uniform and dress code policies in the NHS in England make reference to the wearing of tattoos. Many policies suggest that tattoos should either not be visible or should be covered as they may cause offence. Considering that tattoos are becoming more prevalent, this article discusses the need for a review of policy to reflect the changing acceptance of tattoos within contemporary society.
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Why is it important?
Visible tattoos are becoming increasingly evident and the wearing of tattoos by professional groups is questioned within the uniform and dress code policies but there is often little evidence to support this.
Perspectives
As a lecturer in nursing I have seen an increase in the wearing of visible tattoos by students in recent years and have questioned both my own response and that of employers. Perhaps the most important voice is that of the patient or client group who come into regular contact with the nurses and other health care professionals.
Steve Bilham
Anglia Ruskin University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: NHS staff tattoo policies in England: time for an update?, British Journal of Healthcare Management, October 2022, Mark Allen Group,
DOI: 10.12968/bjhc.2022.0029.
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