Bare below the elbow
 

Hi, i've never started my own thread before so my fingers are crossed that i've done it right!

I'm a medical student in the UK and have placements in hospitals and GP's etc, this was fine until the NHS introduced a new 'bare below the elbow' rule this year, which means I will have to have my sleeves rolled up above my elbows for all practical procedures, which is a problem due to the scars on my forearms.

I was wondering if anyone had any ideas on how I could possibly make them less obvious? They are old so nearly the same colour as the skin around them, but they are a bit raised so they are more obvious in some lights, and unfortunately don't look anything like they were accidents.

And does anyone have any ideas on what I should say if someone does ask me about them? (patient/other student/doctor?!?!?) I'm scared I will completely blank and stand there in terror!

The scars wont stop me going on my placements, but if I could avoid some awkward situations I would be much happier about it!!

Thanks

hey hun

crazy rabbit is right to speak to your boss but there are things like bio oil that helps too if your worried hun

i hope you get things sorted

take care

midnight xxxx

dermablend, bio oil and talking to your supervisor sound like the best options - hope you get something sussed

The patients will likely be too nervous to care. Otherwise just say they are from your past and change the subject.

Thanks, I'm not keen on talking to my supervisor, there's a bit of prejudice against mental illness from some of the more old-fashioned consultants, but I will wait and see who I get.

Bio-oil sounds like a good option, will get some a try it when I go to the shops.

Thanks for your help

I'd be careful about wearing any cover up on them, what with infecction control and stuff, they can be a bit funny. Can you not talk to your tutor about it? x