Five Factors to Consider When Choosing Nursing Scrubs & Nurse Shoes

Throughout history, nurses have commonly been depicted the same way.

Twenty-five years ago, it was white fitted dresses, white leather nurse shoes, and nursing school caps. Today, nursing scrubs and skirts have become less common, and many nurses can often be seen in solid-colored hospital scrubs, tennis shoes, and a stethoscope around their neck.

But recently, when I was at the doctor’s office meeting with a nurse practitioner, I couldn’t help but notice the woman had a completely different look about her, and it impacted the way I related to her.

Although she still had the stethoscope around her neck, she was wearing a blue and green indigenous printed paisley scrub top with black scrub pants, and nursing shoes I would describe as clogs. Her relaxed look helped me to feel more relaxed and comfortable with her and therefore freer to open up about my health concerns. Without saying a word, this evoked a sense of trust in me.

Simply Scrubs realizes the importance of moments like this as it offers an exclusive collection of men, women, and unisex Indigenous scrubs that not only bring to life vivid storytelling with its scrubs, but also offers intricate designs of Indigenous culture, which can transform everyday medical uniforms into pieces of wearable art.

When personal expression can be added to a hospital uniform, it increases the confidence of the person wearing it, and in my experience, the relatability of the person to the patient. At a time when demanding shifts can drain energy levels, wearing something you feel good in can keep your mood and energy levels high.

This is becoming part of an ongoing trend as we witness a cultural shift happening in healthcare as it pertains to nursing dress codes. For the first time, there is more of a focus on finding the right balance between looking professional, expressing individuality, and maintaining comfort. Healthcare institutions are now responsible for creating an inclusive and supportive environment for their staff, which means uniforms and dress codes also need to change. This move seems to reflect a contemporary trend toward human-centered design in healthcare.

Yet it’s essential for every healthcare association to strike the right balance between required uniforms and personal clothing, as it sets the tone for the level of professionalism received, as well as patient confidence in their care.

Here Are Five Important Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Scrubs Uniform

• Comfortability. Uncomfortable clothing can lead to distraction, or increased anxiety, which a nurse cannot afford during extended shifts with demanding responsibilities.
• Versatility. Nurse scrubs should be practical and easy to move in so as to not prevent you from accomplishing your duties. Pockets are an added bonus to provide places to store nursing tools.
• Hygiene: Hospitals and healthcare organizations have strict standards when it comes to hygiene. It’s always important to ensure clothing is easy to clean and maintain.
• Professionalism: First impressions are formed in an instant, and a uniform serves as a reflection of how the public identifies the role of the wearer.
• Safety: Limit accessories such as necklaces or bracelets to minimize the risk of injury and encourage a safer working environment for everyone.

But the considerations certainly don’t end there. As any woman knows, shoes make the entire outfit and what male or female nurses choose to put on their feet has a detrimental effect on their well-being, as they are on them for shifts all day or night long. In addition, the wrong shoes can also contribute to problems with knees, feet, and hips.

Nursing shoes are specifically designed for overall comfort and Simply Scrubs offers a wide variety of different styles to choose from that include nursing clogs, slip ons, and lace ups, to name only a few.

Six Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing the Right Nursing Shoe

• How does it feel? Be sure the nursing shoe is not too snug or too loose on your foot. If there is extra space at the toe, it could cause you to slip, and if it is too tight, it can cause blisters or scraping.
• How is the sole? Be sure to find a nursing shoe that can support quick turns or sharp movements. Rubberized soles are good for tread patterns, and a thick sole will help to provide shock absorption.
• Are They Easy to Clean? Spills are common in hospital rooms whether it be bedside water, vomit, or other body fluids. Make sure your footwear is prepared for the challenge.
• Have You Changed Your Shoes? The more wear and tear a shoe endures, the less stability it is able to provide. Don’t wait until your shoes are on their last legs and risk falling before you change them out.
• When Was the Last Time You Took a Break? Getting off your feet is just as important to give your shoes, and your feet, a much needed rest. Even if it’s only for 10 minutes, take the time to sit down.
• Are you Taking Care of Your Feet? It is important to give them TLC by soaking them in the tub or getting regular pedicures. Make sure you are giving the proper love and attention to your feet so they can continue to provide for you in the years to come.

Finally, when it comes to nursing scrubs, colorful printed nursing socks can make a great addition to any wardrobe choice to add that individual expression.