What are real nurses made of?

My nursing school’s old-fashioned dress code was strictly enforced. Thankfully, our assigned uniforms have since been updated. Those starchy outfits were excruciatingly white and bulky. Of course we felt self conscious with our circa 1950 pinafores and cup sleeves. This was 2005. In fact, it was impossible to look good in those outfits. Perhaps that was the point. In any case, we were expected to arrive on time to each clinical setting, polished and pressed.

There were three additional requirements: Absolutely no jewelry allowed. All hair must be swept off the shoulder. And, when holding up our palms, no fingernail could be visible over the pads of our fingers. Obviously, artificial nails were an absolute no-no.

The fingernail rule makes rational sense. There are several studies linking health staff’s acrylic nails and nosocomial infections among patients. Ultra-long nails seem like a hindrance to providing safe patient care. Even if the nails are natural, how can nurses keep them from piercing gloves?

We have all heard stories of jewelry or hair falling into sterile fields. Long hair or hoop earrings might jeopardize the safety of nurses working with certain types of equipment, such as dialysis machines. But, what about bedside nurses? Outside of sterile or highly technical environments, these particular dress code requirements may be based on perceived patient preferences. Perhaps they reflect administrators’ ideas of professional appearance.

As a nursing student, I spent several weeks on a post partum unit. I remember being astonished by the amount of flashy jewelry, flowing hair, and acrylic nails sported by that unit’s nursing staff. Our boxy student uniforms seemed dull and archaic alongside that unit’s glitz and glamour. At the same time, we liked to think that we looked more serious and professional.

After close to three years of nursing, I hardly notice hair, jewelry, or nails anymore. I have learned that there is much more to professional nursing than appearances. But, what about when the nurse’s cosmetic choices adversely affect the safety of patients or staff?

How do you feel about long hair and nails? Does your facility allow jewelry? Do you think they should? Please share your opinions and experiences.