Scrubs and healthcare are pretty much synonymous today, but it wasn’t always the case. Then, why do medical professionals wear scrubs? What did they wear before them? Why did they all decide to change? How did scrubs become so well-liked?
When Did Doctors and Nurses Start Wearing Scrubs?
Scrubs were first worn by doctors in the 20th century. Before scrubs were common, doctors and surgeons covered their casual clothing with aprons to keep them clean. Scrubs were not preferred over aprons until the 1940s, when clean, sanitary operating rooms became a necessity. The majority of the surgical staff and surgeons wore the earliest types of scrubs, which were actually gowns or drapes, while doing operations.
The first scrubs were white, which was meant to symbolize purity and cleanliness. However, the operating rooms’ bright lights would make the white cloth difficult for the staff members’ eyes. The modern blue, black, and other colored scrubs didn’t become common until the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Scrubs weren’t worn by nurses until much later. Beginning in the early 1900s, nurses wore very traditional all-white skirts, aprons, and hats. In the early 1970s, nurses completely abandoned hats, and hemlines gradually got lower, but white dresses and skirts are unpractical and challenging to keep clean in a medical setting. Scrubs became the uniform of choice for nurses in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Why Do Doctors and Nurses Wear Scrubs?
Doctors and Nurses wear scrubs for a variety of significant reasons. Scrubs make it simple for patients and other bystanders to recognize medical workers, much like firefighter suits or police uniforms. Scrubs are also simple to clean and maintain, which is essential while working in a hospital setting. Because contemporary scrubs are manufactured with antibacterial materials, they also guard against infections for both doctors and patients.
Do Occupational Therapists Wear Scrubs?
Yes. Some hospitals and rehabilitation facilities require occupational therapists to wear scrubs. Wherever the OT works, they frequently wear a polo shirt with either dark slacks or scrub pants if scrubs are not required.
Do Pharmacists Wear Scrubs?
Yes. Scrubs are OK for pharmacists to wear, however ultimately it depends on their workplace and preferences. Scrubs are far more common among hospital pharmacists than those who work in retail chains. Depending on the workplace, pharmacists may also don lab coats or other business attire.
Do Physical Therapists Wear Scrubs?
Yes. physical therapists wear scrubs when compelled to do so by their employer, but some choose to wear them anyhow because they’re an easy, basic, and inexpensive option. Businesses frequently require Physical therapists to wear polo shirts with either no logo or the corporate logo.