What you can expect if you wear your Scrubs in Public The inevitable and number one question that will be asked if you wear your scrubs out in the public sector. “Are you a nurse?” Once you provide the answer, “yes”, then you will be awarded with getting to hear that this person had an aunt, a cousin, or someone that was also a nurse. You probably don’t mind devoting a little time to a stranger, as you are proud to be recognized as a nurse. Children often view nurses as a person with a needle, so when wearing your scrubs in public, be aware. If a child sees you and starts crying, the scrubs might be the reason. Some humorous questions you may be asked •Are you a “real” nurse?” •Have you ever saved someone's life? •Have you ever killed anyone? •Why can’t you use a soft needle when giving shots? Well, one would assume these questions are from children, but you never know. People sometimes don’t put a lot of thought into the process of what a nurse says and does. The doctor may prescribe the medication and treatment, but, as the nurse, you deliver the information to the patient, and carry out the orders. It's your entire job as the nurse to ensure any procedure is done accurately. Then there is the soft needle? That would be nice, but certainly not feasible. Of course, when a wide eyed child asks questions such as these, all because they see you in your scrubs, you can simply smile and proudly say, “Yes, I am a nurse”. Related: Pre-Shift Snacks or Meals to Boost Your Energy Responsibilities It's not always easy to change out of scrubs after your shift. You may have a quick stop, or several stops to make on your way home, so it's not uncommon to be out in public in your work attire. There is a sense of responsibility that all nurses maintain, and that is, in the event of an emergency, you respond. Should you be shopping and someone collapses, there is no doubt you would step into action and offer to assist. If you don’t see the person needing attention, yet another shopper noticed you, it’s a certainty they will ask for your assistance. It's obvious you are in the
medical profession, and of course, as a nurse, you will help in any way you can, as that’s what nurses do. In a way, wearing those scrubs in public is similar to wearing a neon sign indicating, in the event of an emergency, you are there to help. Downside of Wearing Scrubs in Public Our society is compiled of a diverse group of people. A select few people may have a fear or phobia of germs. Many people wear masks and gloves just to walk in a medical practice, as they have a fear of contracting an illness. So when a person that has a fear of germs, notices someone in scrubs, they may very well head the opposite direction, fearing you may be contaminated. You should not be offended, as phobias of germs are a genuine condition, and anyone that is afflicted with it knows just how difficult it can be. Said person may view you as a giant germ since you are clothed in something that makes them relate to a medical office. Don’t be surprised to notice a select few people avoiding you at all costs. The Pitiful Stares Some people that see a nurse picking up groceries while wearing scrubs may offer the look of sympathy your way. Their assumption may be that you have just worked a 12 hour shift and now have to go grocery shopping for the family. Of course that is not always the case, however, people have preconceived notions, and many assume nurses work 12 hour shifts and then attend to their personal lives. I once knew a nurse that had a large craft type wooden pin that she put on her scrub top before going out in public, it reads: “I am fine, and having a great day”. Related: 5 Ways to Lift Your Geriatric Patient’s Spirits Tips for Selecting Scrubs You can equip yourself with deep V-necks, open collar neck scrub tops in dark solid colors if you are top heavy and narrow at the hips. These will narrow your upper portion. On the other way, if you are bottom heavy, wear long tops that skim over your hips. This will cover up a multitude of sins. Avoid wearing wide pants if you are heavy on the hips. And if you are the slim type of nurse (for females), it will be good to wear ruffled, smocked, and gathered tops to add some volume to your body. Layer your scrub top, camisole and jacket for a more substantial look as well. These ideas will ensure that no matter what your body type, you will look awesome in your scrub. 2. Choose the Right Size Scrubs
One of the most important things to consider is choosing the right size of scrubs, and yet it is often overlooked. For males, scrubs are either too wide or too fit. While most female nurses don’t know their actual measurements. As a result, nurses tend to buy outfits that don’t fit them as well as they should. When you buy scrubs, choose the right size for a good, comfortable fit. When you wear well-fitting scrubs, you’ll feel more comfortable and more confident, and walk tall. And if nothing matches your measurements, it would be best to seek help from the best tailors and seamstresses in your place. This will allow your own self to guarantee repairs and adjustments as well. 3. Wear Complimentary Colors Consider the right color scrubs that match your skin tone. To find out if a color suits your complexion or not, hold the scrub up close to your face. If the scrub color gives your face a warm tone, then the color is right for you. If your face looks drawn, pale, or tired next to the scrub’s color, then the color isn’t best for you. The idea is to choose colors that brighten your face. If you are not good in judging yourself, don’t forget to consider the opinion of your CLOSEST friends. They will surely give you the most honest remark! 4. Match Your Tops and Pants Though most scrubs come in pair, buy several sets in prints and bold colors and then match up the separates. Bring out the best can come up with creative matches and keep shifting your sets. Wearing a new look every day may add excitement and start your day just right. However, when you mix scrubs, ensure that when you wear a printed item, you downplay the effect using a solid color item. For example, you can wear a printed bottom with a solid top, which reflects one of the main colors in your bottom’s print. Related: What does a nursing student look like? You can also mix prints, if they’re of the same family. Mostly for females, mix florals with florals, and animal prints with animal prints. If your bottom has large prints, ensure that your top has small prints. You can also mix floral or prints with solid colors. For males, wearing solid colors is much better, from lighter tops matched with darker pants and vice versa. Over time, you’ll learn how to efficiently mix and match, creating new looks for yourself. 5. Do Some Personal Touch on Your Scrubs Even if you buy your scrubs from a shop, there’s no reason why you cannot put your own unique stamp on it. Though this idea may seem familiar to
some institutions, try getting your name embroidered on the side of your top, for a very unique look. You can also choose to put your embroidered nickname or initials on one side of the sleeve in an alternative color. On a solid color top, equip it with your favorite pin to pop the solid color. It doesn’t matter if the pin has nothing to do with the profession as long as it matches your personality. You can think of many ways to personalize your scrub. Just make sure that the idea you are trying to consider is not against the institution’s specific rules. Making sure your scrubs are neat and clean is a good practice whether you will be in public or at work. Your scrubs are a representation of you as a nurse, and it is your work attire. Wear them proudly. Related: International Nurses Association Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter