To Wear or Not to Wear: Scrubs in Public Wearing scrubs in public can be a mixed experience. There are those that believe that wearing scrubs outside of the workplace can be dangerous to those who are not exposed to what you see day in and day out. You most likely have your own thoughts on this. Dealing with what you do every day, would it be sensible for you to wear your scrubs outside of the hospital? Some serious considerations should be taken before jumping in and wearing your scrubs on your way to and from work. Sterility Do your scrubs need to be sterile? If you are working in a sterile environment like the operating room, it is probably best not to wear your scrubs outside of the work place. If your hospital does not have changing facilities, you might have just to throw them on at home. However, it is always good to be informed about what is going on around you.
Where You Are Going? If you are going to grab a quick bite to eat or are stopping at the grocery store on the way home, it is perfectly acceptable to wear your scrubs. However, if you are going to a party or visiting someone else at a hospital, it may not be completely appropriate.
What Do You Do? What is your job description? If you work with contagious patients regularly, you should probably change. Play it safe by leaving your scrubs at work to avoid contamination. Sometimes you do not even need to come in contact with a patient. Just being in the room can cause pathogens to end up on your scrubs.
Clean or Soiled? Going out in dirty scrubs is a big no-no. It is not only an unattractive outfit but spreading germs can be a giant risk. Plus, it doesn’t make you look like the careful and responsible nurse you are.
Give them a thorough inspection before you decide to leave them on when your shift is over. Make sure that there are not any spots or stains.
Stylish or Not? Many patterns and colors are available for scrubs. They can be your way of showing personality on the job! Wearing your scrubs in public will let everyone know that you work in the medical field and are proud of it. Or--you’re just too tired to change. They can give you a chance to show off your style, even in uniform. Wearing scrubs outside of the workplace is a tricky situation. People may approach you to ask about work. Curiosity is a large part of what makes us human. Whether it be to ask you a medical question or to scold you, you should expect at least some work-related interaction when going out in scrubs. However, you should be aware that many think being around someone in scrubs is dangerous. If these people approach you, you can say whatever you want. It is quite rude to do so, and most people who do are grossly misinformed. You can ignore them, inform them, or do whatever else floats your boat. Just know that people approaching you is a possibility when you wear your scrubs in public. Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter