Types of Nurse Uniforms

When it comes to nurse uniforms, long gone are the days of nursing caps, aprons and starched white dresses. Traditionally, the attire worn by nurses was one that easily identified the profession of the woman wearing it and was originally modeled after a nun's habit. It has evolved from its long, bulky origins to the more practical types of uniforms that are available today.

• Scrubs – As of 2011, scrubs are perhaps the most commonly worn type of nurse's uniform. Worn by both male and female nurses, scrubs have moved beyond the blue and green most often associated with surgeons and are available in a wide variety of colors and even novelty prints. This type of uniform, which consists of drawstring or elastic pants and a short sleeved tunic top, began to gain in popularity starting in the 70s and 80s and gaining in popularity largely due to the comfort and freedom of movement associated with them. Both scrub tops and bottoms often have deep pockets for holding items such as pens, penlights and other necessary paraphernalia.


• Dresses and Skirts – While dresses are no longer the norm when it comes to nurse's uniforms, they are still available for women who feel more comfortable in them as opposed to wearing pants. Dresses for nurses are typically white with little variety in terms of style. Skirts are another option for female nurses although choices in skirts are often less than those for dresses. Not all uniform stores or catalogs may offer these and those that do will often have a limited selection to choose from.


• Jackets – Jackets are also available and can be worn as a part of nurse's uniforms. They are lightweight, usually long sleeved and are worn over scrub tops or t-shirts that are worn with scrub bottoms. Nursing jackets are available in solid colors or in prints, the same as scrubs and are sold in uniform stores and catalogs along with scrubs and dresses.


• Shoes - Because nurses stand for long periods at a time, they must wear shoes that provide the proper amount of support and comfort. Shoes that are made specifically for the medical profession are available and can be purchased at uniform stores. Some nurses prefer to wear white tennis shoes as a part of their uniform dress.