Workplace dress code is critically important because it gives the staff team a more presentable and professional appearance when dealing with clients. In a hectic environment like a hospital, where patients and their families may be in a distressed mood due to worry, or pain, knowing who the medical professionals are according to their uniform will help provide some assurance and bring down the stress level.
Furthermore, medical uniforms make staff members feel like they are part of a team, which can boost team spirit and productivity. Here are some things to consider when selecting functional medical uniforms for yourself and your team:
Quality
The scrubs will not only be worn frequently but will also be exposed to a wide range of bodily fluids and substances. This results in more frequent and harsh cleaning methods of sanitisation. If you want long-lasting scrubs uniforms then you should look for high-quality fabric, strong seams, and reinforced stress points. The fabric of your scrub will also influence its breathability. Depending on your working environment, you may prefer something warmer or more lightweight and cooler.
Fit
Verify that your medical garment does not restrict your movement in any way. A well-fitting medical scrub and uniform will allow you to move freely and remain active for long periods of time without becoming uncomfortable. Some scrubs include side splits for added comfort and flexibility. It is up to personal preference whether you choose a tight or loose-fitting design, as long as it allows for adequate mobility without getting in the way. It should also allow you to bend, kneel, and stretch without subjecting your uniform to tearing.
Colour
There are numerous colour options available for health worker uniforms these days, with white, green, and blue being the most common, but you can also choose brown, maroon, pink, or purple. Most ambulances prefer green or blue scrubs uniforms because studies show that they are easier to wash blood stains out of than white scrubs.
Green and blue scrubs are also gentler on the eyes than red or bright white scrubs, which can cause eyestrain and fatigue. Keep in mind that darker colours, such as navy blue, appear to work better in the medical sector. According to colour psychology, these colours, particularly blue, promote feelings of calm, serenity, and security.
This is highly dependent on the organisation with which you work. Some hospitals and clinics, particularly in paediatrics, may allow for prints or patterns on scrubs, but most hospitals require their employees to wear solid colours with no prints. Before deciding whether or not to have prints on your medical uniform, check with your employer or company to see if they will allow it.
Special Features
Good medical scrubs should have a number of features that improve the functionality and convenience. First and foremost, pockets. The garment should have a number of well-placed pockets to allow you to easily store and access items such as writing materials, medical instruments, or your phone.
There should be at least two pockets, but three would be ideal. Some scrubs have pockets with compartments for pens or other tools. Others are reversible, allowing you to wear both sides, and many scrub pants now have elastic waists with fabric ties for added comfort. Check that the scrub is industrial laundry friendly to ensure that it can withstand vigorous washing to remove all impurities and contaminants.
Rules of Hygiene in the Clinical Setting
Work Clothes
When wearing a headscarf, it must be fastened and changed on a daily basis. Work clothes must be short-sleeved and changed daily, or as needed. Short-sleeved clothing does not include lab coats or jackets with rolled-up sleeves. This means that lab coats and jackets are ineligible for examination, care, or treatment.
Hair, Nails, and Jewellery
Watches and jewellery must not be worn on the hands or forearms. Nails should be kept short and unvarnished. Nail extensions, artificial nails, and nail jewellery are not hygienic. Long hair must be tied back.
Protection of Contamination
When there is a risk of contamination of the scrubs uniforms it’s a given that protective clothing must be worn over them, especially in the case of surgeons. Duties that involve the risk of splashing or contact with bodily fluids, personal care, or handling hazardous particles, such as when making beds or performing invasive examinations and treatments, are all good examples. And in situations where there is a risk of splashes to the face, wear a mask, safety goggles, or a visor.
Gloves
If there is a risk or likelihood of contact with bodily fluids/secretions, disposable gloves must be used. Gloves must be patient-specific and discarded immediately after use. Because the outside of gloves becomes contaminated, they spread infections in the same way that unprotected hands do. Gloves must be changed between tasks for the same patient to avoid the spread of infection when performing alternately dirty and clean work.
Disinfection and Hand Washing
Before and after each patient, as well as before and after the use of gloves, hands must be disinfected with a disinfectant. After washing, hands must be thoroughly dried.
