Specializing in 1 Hour Visits: Serving Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Nokomis, East Bradenton, Florida

Caregivers Uniforms

Do you prefer to have your caregivers wear white uniforms or any other kind of scrubs?  It wasn’t that long ago when nurses, nursing assistants, and all other caregivers were wearing solid white uniforms.  What changed?  In most settings we now see every employee wearing a different color and print scrub uniform.  In the USA, this has become very popular but how do the patient’s feel about this?

Apparently, we are in the minority.  Most other countries in the world still wear solid white uniforms when working with patients.  White represents cleanliness and also gives the workers an “angelic” appearance.  It somehow makes the patients feel better about who is taking care of them.  I suppose I would rather have my caregiver in a clean, white, crisp uniform than a bright red one with dog bones on it.  I guess white is more calming.

I have heard that white is better so you can see if anything has contaminated your uniform.  It makes sense.  Again blood would show up on white VS red print with dog bones.  I was told that we here in the USA should be prepared for a change back to wearing white uniforms in the healthcare field.  It’s all about patient satisfaction.  If they want it and we can easily give it to them, then they should have it.

I also learned that a big complaint of patient’s in the hospital setting is that they can’t distinguish the nurse from other workers, so be prepared to see those nursing caps make a return as well as white uniforms.  Actually, I kind of like the idea of stepping back a little in fashion.  Though, I’m not so sure about the navy capes.  A little image boost wouldn’t hurt.   A certain respect comes with the uniform.

Health care is a money-making business, we all know that. Unfortunately, somewhere down the line, the patient’s wants and needs were forgotten and replaced with time-consuming charting and cookie cutter guidelines that not every patient fits into. Sometimes, we have to think outside the small box and do what is best for the patient. Just little things can make a huge difference. Of course patient safety is very important, we must not forget their feelings and needs. A good caregiver can make the patient happy, safely.

I remember what my first nursing instructor said, “Always treat your patient the way you would want yourself or someone you loved to be treated.” That has stuck with me throughout the years and always helps me do just a little better.

Have a Question, Concern or Comment? Would love to hear from you!