Healthcare professionals have one of the most physically straining jobs, working long shifts and providing adequate healthcare. What they wear on the job is so much more than a uniform. Medical scrubs are an integral part of the lives of doctors, nurses, medical technologists, and other healthcare professionals for both sanitary and practical reasons.
Being simple in design, inexpensive to replace, and providing maximum comfort, the scrubs used as medical uniforms have been popular since the ‘60s when they were first worn by surgeons. Nowadays, they are an imperative in all medical facilities, and with the modern styles, they have come a long way since their beginnings.
Why Do All Nurses Wear Scrubs?
Nurses need this type of clothing to protect them from pathogens and bodily fluids that they are exposed to while caring for patients, which is why scrubs are part of the medical personal protective equipment. Wearing clothing that can be properly cleaned ensures minimal transmission of germs to other patients as well. They need clothing that allows them to move comfortably and freely while dealing with all kinds of emergencies, something easy to clean and maintain, and at the same time durable. This is also a uniform that makes it easy for visitors to identify the medical workers.
Male and Female Styles
While the style of men and women’s nursing scrubs online stockists provide is similar, their fit may differ depending on the body shape. Male scrubs are distinctive in their masculine and form-fitting design, with wider shoulders that accommodate all kinds of movement. The placement of zippers and pockets may be different compared to the female ones, and the legs on the scrub pants tend to be mostly straight, although tapered and boot styles are available.
The scrubs for women are cut differently with the idea to suit the female silhouettes in a more flattering way. The pants appear more professional and sophisticated because they are more fitted and less baggy. Modern designs give more choices as to the snap or button closures, mock wrap styles and round or V- neck options, as well as maternity scrubs. Since all scrubs are designed to be functional and comfortable, many medical professionals opt for unisex models. Whatever the choice, being able to move freely in them while tending to the patients is the most important feature.
What to Look for in Scrubs?
Most nurses wear their uniform for at least 10 hours a day, sometimes even longer, so they need scrubs that can work as hard as they do. Bending, lifting patients, running around from room to room, and dealing with splashes, blood, and potential contamination is all part of the job, which puts emphasis on comfort, good quality and durability. When looking for nursing scrubs online from specialised retailers, consider the following features:
Material
Most scrubs are made of combinations of polyester and cotton, or rayon, with spandex for elasticity and viscose. Usually, natural materials like cotton are softer and more comfortable, while synthetics on the other hand, are easier to maintain, last longer, and can be moisture-wicking and wrinkle resistant. Hence, you get the best of both worlds in the form of a blend of both. Keep in mind the material also affects the breathability of the scrubs. Nurses who work in cold environments may want something warmer, whereas those who work in hot and humid surroundings may need something that is cooler and dries out faster.
Flexibility and Mobility
One of the most critical factors of scrub suits is the fit and how well it enables or restricts the wearer’s movement throughout the day. They are often worn for an entire shift so you require unhindered mobility, which is why when you buy nursing scrubs, it’s crucial to look for ones that have a relaxed fit, plus stretch and lightweight fabric. You should also consider the style of both tops and bottoms. If they are too loose, they might interfere with your work. Pants with drawstrings are a good option as you can easily adjust them if necessary.
Pockets
Functionality is also very important. Scrubs that come with many pockets will allow easy transportation of tools from one space to another. Nurses can use their pockets to carry penlights, notepads, bandages, scissors, gloves, IV caps, smartphones or any other item they need regularly. It can be challenging to move personal tools without these features.
Easy Care and Maintenance
Since scrubs have to be frequently washed and dried in very high temperatures, when you buy nursing scrubs online make sure they can withstand intense cleaning while maintaining durability over time. Check the labels for laundry methods and washing temperatures. If contamination and fluid spillage is common, choose a thicker fabric. Additional characteristics such as wrinkle-resistance to avoid ironing are also preferable. Mainly, you need something that is easy to care for and lasts long.
Style and Fashion
Fashion is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of scrubs. However, people who design them have come up with solutions that are not only practical but also look good. Feeling and looking good can impact your attitude at work, and wearing clothing you hate won’t contribute to a pleasant outcome. There are choices in the type of fabric and whether it’s plain, printed, or embroidered, as well as a variety of styles, including loose fit or slimming, option of side slits, neckline shape, and colour, giving you plenty of scrubs uniforms options to shop from.
Conclusion
Medical uniforms have come a long way since all-white shoes, tops, pants, and dresses. Today, you have your choice of fabric, prints, styles, and lengths. Matching scrub sets with tops and pants and using coordinated team scrubs can help achieve a professional and consistent healthcare image while keeping everyone comfortable and protected.
