The classic portrayal of a nurse is that of a female dressed in a crisp white dress uniform and a starched, winged cap. That is the vision of days gone by. Today, there is a radical change or a new normal in uniform wear. Scrubs are currently taking over the nursing fashion industry to the tune of $10

The classic portrayal of a nurse is that of a female dressed in a crisp white dress uniform and a starched, winged cap. That is the vision of days gone by. Today, there is a radical change or a new normal in uniform wear. Scrubs are currently taking over the nursing fashion industry to the tune of $10 billion annually.

As of 2011, a U.S. Census Bureau report shows that 9.8 percent of the nursing workforce is male, for the purpose of this discussion, the information is highly reflective of the female workforce.

Uniform History

The original nurse’s uniform was reminiscent of a nun’s habit. The alternate version from the past is a replica of the gray tweed uniform that Florence Nightingale made popular.

Over time, the uniform evolved into the typical nurse’s garb that brings to mind a white dress, starched cap and white tie shoes.

So now what? Today, the typical, commonly seen nurse’s work wear is a set of baggy, yet colorful or fun print, scrubs and a pair of funky clogs. This is quite a transformation.

The Pros and Cons of Time-Honored Whites

Pros

• A traditional white uniform clearly distinguishes a nurse to patients, families and hospital personnel
• There is a professional air emitted by a nurse wearing a crisp white uniform

Cons

• White stains easily and can become soiled by blood, other body fluids and/or solutions used in patient care
• White uniforms can intimidate some people, especially children, by creating the well-known "white coat syndrome"

What About Scrubs?

Pros

• Comfort, comfort, comfort is the key factor of this attire
• The loose fitting garment makes for ease of movement in a physically active profession
• Unlimited colorful designs allow nurses to express their personality

Cons

• Wearing scrubs can make it difficult to identify a nurse because a variety of hospital staff members like housekeeping, dietary and lab technicians also wear them
• Scrubs convey a casual sense rather than a strictly professional one

What Else?

The consummate professional nurse needs to pay heed to several other personal details, in addition to their fashion statement. These are a few incidentals:

Fingernails

Nails should be kept short and clean. Long nails can harm a patient and also are a breeding ground for germs. Nail polish may be used, or not, according to the policy of the facility.

Hair

Long hair should be pulled up in a ponytail or bun, when possible. This will keep hair off of the patient and also prevents the nurse from carrying germs in her hair.

Tattoos and Piercings

Most facilities have a specific policy regarding tattoos and piercings. Two key questions are: can a uniform easily cover a tattoo? and, can multiple piercings be removed, if needed?

What Do You Wear to Work?

Individual healthcare facilities have specific dress codes for the nursing staff. The common denominator is that every nurse must look professional.

Interestingly, a survey conducted by American Nurse Today found that 28 pcercnt of the patients expressed the opinion that nurses should wear white uniforms.

It is important to note that clinical expertise should not be judged by what a nurse wears. This dress code debate, traditional whites versus scrubs, rages on with no clear-cut answer.