Nursing Home Uniform
Few will argue that this describes our historical vision of the nurse. For most of us over the age of 30, crisply starched white nursing home uniform are the representation of the years of study and clinical training that is necessary to obtain a nursing license. It is the representation of knowledge and competence and this vision in white works to comfort and allay fears for those in need of healthcare in the hospital.
However, this iconic image is not
without drawbacks. The austere, starched white uniform can be intimidating to
some patients, especially in the pediatric units where it has been found that
cheerful colors and child-oriented prints create a friendlier atmosphere that
promotes healthcare
uniforms and emotional well-being.
Another negative aspect of wearing
a neatly pressed fitted white nursing home uniform, white pantyhose, and a
starched cap is the lack of functionality in the workplace. Patient care
requires that nurses be able to bend, stretch, lift and generally work among
the various pieces of medical equipment squeezed into small patient rooms.
Bending to retrieve a dropped bandage scissor that slides under the bed opens
the nurse in a dress to "unwanted exposure". Keeping a healthcare uniforms on the head while
working is a feat that fully defeats the age-old function of the bobby pin. In
light of these problems it was only natural that nursing home uniform underwent a significant change in the 1980's. Uniform design focused on both comfort
and function enabling nurses to work long shifts more comfortable and efficiently
Design Uniforms
The most widely used nursing home uniform garment is the design
uniforms. Design uniforms are generally straight cut tunic style tops that are
worn either tucked into branded uniforms or on the
outside. Design uniforms are designed
with double seaming and limited fashion details so that there are few places
where dirt or bacteria can become trapped, thus becoming an important part of
infection control in a health care facility. The material of design uniforms is
often treated with antimicrobial agents to prevent staining or bacterial growth.
Made from either 100% cotton or a 65/35 polycotton blended fabric, uniform
scrubs are easily laundered in hot water to remove bacteria and other
substances that collect on clothing during the work shift. Design uniforms are
now available in a wide range of colors, prints and sizes. each hospital and
health centers have their own rules and regulations that establish exactly what
color and style of design uniforms their particular nurses can wear to work.
Branded Uniforms
The original branded uniforms was a loose-fitting unisex pant with a drawstring
waist. They are lightweight enough to remain comfortable during work but still
provide the necessary protection needed against potentially infectious
materials. In order to accommodate the diverse body styles of the nursing
community branded uniforms added elastic waists, petite and tall lengths, and
an increased size range that extended from XS to 5XL. As uniform scrubs tuned
into the fashion industry, low-rise and cargo pants were born. Also, like scrub
shirts and jackets, branded uniforms are offered in a variety of different
colors and prints, allowing them to be matched or contrasted to the other parts
of the uniform.
The world of nursing
home uniform is characterized by color, function and comfort. Uniform
scrubs have taken over as the uniform of choice and are found in nearly every
department of the hospital. Today's nurse can work comfortably and efficiently
thanks to the practical changes in nursing home uniform and nursing shoes.
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