[fyrwmn]

Hello

I recently got hired by a company, per diem, to work at flu clinics, health fairs, etc. I was told that we should wear business causal clothes and a white lab coat.

Here is my question- should I purchase one with my name embroidered on it? I have seen sites where I can get the RN embroidered but how about my name? I have read some discussions where nurses object to people knowing their last names, or having their last names on ID cards. Even on all these sites, the embroidery examples are always for doctors (I.e. Dr. John Doe, MD) But what do you think about me getting “Jane Doe, RN”?

My employer has told me that it’s up to me as far as what to have the lab coat. (For this job I will work either independently or with one other nurse. We go out to other companies and perform Drug testing, physicals, TB testing, flu clinics, etc)

I am just wondering what people have seen or what you think would most professional in this situation. Any input would be greatly appreciated

[RNinMay07]

I think it would definetly be appropriate to put your first and last name, RN. Because you are working in public health situations I would think you would want to come across as professional as possible. And I don't think people at a public health fair would try to stalk you or anything. Perhaps if you were an outpatient mental health nurse this would be an issue. But with the conditions you have described I don't see this as a problem. MDs are always referred to by their last name and I believe nurses are owed the same respect. I don't expect patients to call us "Nurse Smith" or what not, I always tell my patients to call me by my first name (as I think most nurses do), but the white coat is a symbol of authority (whether nurse or doctor) and I believe the most professional presentation is always the best. Good luck as this sounds like it could really be a fun job!