Nursing Professional Attire: Probing Patient Preferences to Inform Implementation

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to increase understanding of patient perceptions of nursing professional image, appearance, and identification to inform implementation of professional clinical attire. BACKGROUND: There is growing evidence of patient preference for and organizational implementation of professional clinical attire. METHODS: A total of 350 randomly selected inpatients were surveyed using the professional image and patient preferences survey prior to a revision of the dress code for nursing. RESULTS: Patients gave high scores for nursing image, appearance, and identification, with no support for color-coded uniforms. CONCLUSIONS: Organizations should assess patient perceptions before implementation of a dress code for nursing.

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