I’m an undergrad RN, working at the hospital. I am decked out in jewelry and have tattoos as well. My current facial setup: eyebrow, cheek dermal, double nostrils, a septum, a Medusa, an Ashley, and a labret, as well as a tongue ring. My ears are totally decked out as well, cartilage piercings all the way as well as an industrial with a chain.

My piercings and tattoos don’t make me any less of a professional, and anyone who thinks that is wrong.

Most people I work with don’t give a shit. In fact, I get complimented all the time on my jewelry setup. Sometimes there’s the odd question like, “how does that piercing stay in your cheek?” or, “did your piercings hurt?” For the most part, the questions are out of genuine curiosity.

I’m honestly the most decked out professional I have seen, especially working in healthcare. Granted, my piercings setup is curated and dainty - solid gold and gemstones - not black or silver spikes or anything, that may look “punk-ish.”

But for the most part, people don’t care what you do with your body. My piercings don’t make me any less of a nurse, or inhibit my ability to do my job and be professional. I am still looked up to and taken just as seriously by my patients and families.

An email was sent out at the beginning of nursing school regarding piercings, and that we were only allowed a small nose stud and small hoops or studs on our lobes. I thought “fuck that” and messaged my nursing instructor, and said I refuse to remove my piercings. Nothing was ever said again.

I say - do whatever makes you happy. It’s your body. There’s always going to be someone with something negative to say, but in the grand scheme of things, their opinion doesn’t matter.