Scrubs: Modern Nursing Uniforms

The way scrubs are seen today is actually a recent development; only within the 20th century have scrubs been synonymous with the medical field. They are loose fitting and comfortable, and even had a television show named after them. In this article, take a look at the uniform known as scrubs.

Modern scrubs

Prior to the “Spanish flu” epidemic of 1918, most surgeons usually wore their own clothes with a butcher’s apron over them. It was around that time that certain measures were taken including surgeons wearing cotton masks during surgery. It was after this time that nurses started wearing rubber gloves when they cleaned equipment. By 1970, modern surgical cleaning was in place along with the sterile scrub uniform.

What defines a scrub today?

Today scrubs are defined as any medical uniform that has short sleeves and pants. Almost all patient-care personnel in the United States wear scrubs, as do some hospital staff, dental workers and veterinary workers. Doctors usually wear their regular clothes under their “white coats,” but those who specialize in surgery have to wear scrubs.

Scrub designs

There are many different colors of scrubs; green is reserved for surgery, and blue is for medical. For nurses, it is an open game. They wear whatever color they choose. There are a lot of different colors and designs that fit any personalized style.

The uniform known as scrubs gives comfort and safety to its workers. Nevertheless, it shows that those in the medical field are not drab and dreary. Scrubs are one of the most versatile uniforms medical professionals can wear, and who knows what the uniform of the future can bring.