Body piercing is a common form of self-expression around the world. Although a common practice among many cultures and age groups, there is very little published as to the care of the patient with body piercings in the perianesthesia setting. This article explores the type, site, care, and removal of body piercings in the preoperative setting. A focus on issues in the United States and New Zealand is provided.
Address correspondence to Bettina Marenzi, RGON, ADN, 36 Ruamahanga Cres, Palmerston North, North Island, New Zealand
1 Bettina Marenzi, RGON, ADN, is an Afterhours Clinical Nursing Coordinator in the Operating Room in Palmerston North Hospital, Palmerston North, North Island, New Zealand. She is also on the National Committee of Perioperative Nursing College (PNC) of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO), representing the region of Ruahine Egmont and the National Committee member for the Education working party for PNC.
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