In medical practice, one of the most common situations is enduring long shifts, which can sometimes last up to 36 hours. In fact, a study conducted in Spain revealed that 80% of internists exceed the maximum hours allowed in a workday in Europe.
Healthcare professionals prepare for this arduous task by eating as well as possible, resting extensively the day before, and, on occasion, ensuring they wear the most comfortable shoes they have in their wardrobe. But have they ever stopped to choose the most comfortable medical attire that allows them to move freely and feel confident?
The available options for clothing are limited for the staff, between what hospitals provide and what can be found in medical clothing stores. Additionally, in many cases, professionals themselves do not recognize that the nursing uniforms and medical uniforms they wear daily can increase fatigue and stress, and even generate feelings of insecurity.
Therefore, let’s explore the effects that inappropriate medical attire can have on healthcare professionals during long shifts.
Dermatitis and fatigue caused by textiles
The purpose of medical clothing material is to protect staff and ensure they can carry out their daily tasks successfully. That being said, many of the garments found in the standard medical uniform store use materials that can negatively affect the staff’s health, whether due to their dye, chemicals, or lack of porosity.
Contact dermatitis caused by textiles, although generally thought of as a condition prevalent in babies and children, can also manifest in adults.
On sensitive skin, fabrics dyed with strong chemicals can trigger this condition, or synthetic fabrics such as nylon, rayon, and polyester. Prolonged contact with the skin can also cause mild dermatitis in those who do not suffer from eczema or atopic dermatitis, affecting the physical performance of professionals on long days.
Additionally, these synthetic fabrics have a low level of porosity, which tends to trap heat and generate more sweating, leading to easy dehydration and fatigue in the staff.
On long and busy days, it is essential to wear medical attire made from soft, airy fabrics, preferably with dyes that are not highly chemical.
Physical wear due to incorrect fit
Medical garments are the first tool required by a healthcare worker, the one they use the most while working, and therefore it must fit their body correctly. This way, they can comfortably perform their daily activities. Although fluid-resistant uniforms effectively protect the staff, their viscous material often makes it difficult to move freely.
The implications of attire with a poor fit or sizing can cause multiple problems at work. Both too loose and too tight clothing restrict the bodies of doctors, assistants, and nurses, making it difficult to perform positions that require stretching or strength for long periods.
All of this can be avoided with attire that has customized sizes. Every body is different and requires different measurements, and over time, brands innovating in the sector have emerged to offer these customization options.
Mental and emotional consequences of using inappropriate uniforms and equipment
Although it may not be immediately evident, how we feel about the clothing we wear can affect us mentally and emotionally—from unfavorable outfits to those that do not allow free movement. Generally, medical institutions are the ones who provide their workers with generic medical uniforms without considering their physical and emotional importance.
Moreover, it has been proven that outfits can affect self-esteem and confidence. The term "enclothed cognition" describes in detail what happens in our brain when wearing certain attire.
For this reason, the style of clothing reinforces status, especially in work environments where decisions are made, teams are led, and the role of each colleague is respected. Likewise, this mental aspect is crucial for someone who needs to convey confidence and professionalism when connecting with patients.
On days that seem endless, medical attire can either improve or worsen this experience for healthcare personnel. From their physical to mental and emotional well-being, it is imperative to start thinking of medical attire as a tool that deserves special attention in the workplace.
Explore the Colorchain way with comfortable, stylish, and tailored medical attire in our online catalog.
