Perceptions of Visible Body Art Among Radiographers

To determine the perceptions among radiographers of visible tattoos and nontraditional body piercings (piercings other than traditional pierced earlobes) in the clinical setting.

An institutional review board-approved survey was delivered electronically to radiography clinical preceptors working at hospitals affiliated with a radiography program in the South Central part of the United States. Discussion board forum posts about the survey were created in the American Society of Radiologic Technologists Communities, targeting radiographers throughout the United States. Responses were collected for 4 weeks and compared quantitatively using linear regression, logistic regression, and chi-square analysis. Qualitative results were examined for themes, and proportions among themes were reported.

A total of 943 valid responses were received from radiographers working in the United States. Acceptance of body art was lower among individuals without tattoos compared with those who have tattoos (P < .001). Individuals without piercings had a lower acceptance of piercings compared with those who have piercings (P < .001). Acceptance was lower for those who have tattoos but cover them at work compared with those who have visible tattoos at work (P < .001). Acceptance was not statistically significant among those who have piercings who cover them compared with those who have visible nontraditional piercings at work (P = .073). Respondents believed it was more acceptable for members of the public to display a tattoo than for radiographers to display a tattoo at work (P < .001). However, acceptability was higher (P < .001) when the radiographer's tattoo was medically related.

Research links visible body art with negative perceptions of professionalism and skill set ability in other professions, but no studies have addressed radiography. This study reflects findings similar to those professions. A negative perception exists among radiographers regarding the display of body art while working, even among those who have body art. However, the subject of a tattoo might matter more than the location of a tattoo in terms of acceptability. These results have implications for the credibility and appropriateness of radiographers who display body art in the clinical setting because it might adversely affect the perceptions of co-workers and the perceptions of patient care provided during imaging services, and might affect hospital policy management.

Among radiographers working in the United States, a negative perception exists regarding visible body art such as tattoos and nontraditional piercings in the health care setting. Implications include negative perceptions of radiographers displaying body art while working. Future research might influence policy implementation as hospitals work to continually improve satisfaction scores and perceptions of care received.