Ever noticed how doctors and nurses in medical dramas always have to put on another layer of clothing over their medical scrubs when they enter the operating room? That layer of clothing is known as a medical gown and is typically worn to keep the room sterile.
You might even wonder why medical professionals cannot wear only medical scrubs in the operating room. Well, the answer involves keeping the operating theatre environment clean and hygienic for both the surgeon and the patient.
If you’re wondering how to distinguish the difference between a medical gown and medical scrubs, this article seeks to explore the differences and help you to understand its respective roles.
What are Medical Scrubs?
Medical scrubs are generally short-sleeved with round or V-necks. It is a type of clothing that doctors, surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare providers wear whenever they’re on duty at hospital and medical centres.
These professionals change into medical scrubs to prevent blood splatter and other bodily fluids on their clothes while minimising the risk of cross-contamination. Medical scrubs come in various colours and materials, depending on usage purpose.
- Medical scrubs are unique for three reasons:
- * Comfort and range of movement – Medical professionals require a uniform that allows them to move comfortably around the hospital, and medical scrubs can provide optimum comfort and range of movement.
- * Level of protection – Doctors, nurses, etc., have to deal with various bodily fluids that may contain germs, bacteria, etc., and medical scrubs provide adequate protection against bodily fluids.
- * Prevents cross-contamination – Medical scrubs are more than a uniform. They help prevent cross-contamination whenever medical professionals start and leave work. Some scrubs are made of disposable materials whereby it is disposed immediately after use in high risk environment to prevent cross contaminations.
What are Medical Gowns?
Medical gowns are typically worn in operating room to provide medical professionals with a layer of protection against accidental contact with patient’s fluid while performing sugeries.
It is a one-piece garment with long sleeves, which opens at the back. For this reason, doctors or surgeons generally can’t wear it by themselves when entering the operating room, so they require the assistance of a nurse to wear and wrap it tightly around.
Medical gowns have critical zones, which are on the chest and sleeve areas. These zones cover areas where blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious germs can spray or splash onto the doctor’s body during surgery.
How to Choose Medical Scrubs or Gowns?
Choosing the right medical scrubs or gowns is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and professionalism in healthcare facilities. Here are several tips to help you choose the right medical scrubs or gowns:
Consider the level of protection
Depending on your staff’s role in the healthcare setting, they may need to wear medical
scrubs or gowns that offer a higher level of protection. Look for scrubs or gowns that meet
the appropriate safety standards for each role.
Consider the functionality
Medical scrubs should have functional features such as pockets, snap or zipper closure, and sleeves that are easy to roll up. That way, your medical staff can carry some essential items during their rounds.
Consider the fabric
Medical scrubs and gowns are typically made from several blends of materials such as cotton, polyester, rayon, or spandex. When choosing between these fabrics, consider the environment and preferences of your medical staff.
Check for comfort
Medical scrubs and gowns should be comfortable for your staff to wear daily. Look for features like elastic waistbands, stretchy fabric, and breathable material to ensure optimum comfort.
By considering these factors, you can choose medical scrubs or gowns that are comfortable, functional, and appropriate for every of your staff in the healthcare setting.
Looking for medical scrubs or gowns? Visit MEDICOS today!
We all want the best for our medical professionals and protect them from anything that could harm them and their patients. MEDICOS is here to ensure everyone who wears our protective gown returns home safely to their families. Continue to stay safe with MEDICOS protective gowns.