Have you ever wondered what your work uniform communicates about you? Does it say you’re approachable, capable and informed or does it make you seem unfriendly, sterile and stern? If you work in pediatrics or in a mixed-patient setting your appearance can greatly affect the perceptions young patients form. White dress, solid scrubs, patterned smocks, lab coats and street clothes - so many styles of nursing attire exist many of us simply rely on what’s most comfortable. However, studies indicate that children do have a preference for certain uniforms over others.

As a nurse in a pediatric setting, you want your patient to think you’re child friendly to enable a feeling of trust in your patient without appearing threatening. A study done by Donna Meyer entitled, "Children’s Responses to Nursing Attire" addressed the concern of children’s preference in nursing uniforms. Meyer showed one hundred children between the ages of three and five pictures of nurses in the same pose, only altered by their attire. The nurses were wearing a traditional white dress, street clothes, street clothes and a lab coat, or white pants with a colorful patterned smock top.

First, the children were asked, "Which nurse do you want to take care of you?" The children's responses clearly indicated a preference for the colored scrub top. Street clothes with a lab coat rated last among the kids.

Next the children were asked, "Is there a nurse you're afraid of?" The traditional white dress created the most fear in the children, with clothes and lab coat next. Fewer children cited being afraid of the nurse in the colored smock top than any other attire.

Aside from your basic uniform there are a number of items available that are sure to bring a smile to your small patients’ face. Animal stethoscope covers and name badges with cartoon figures are just a few items widely available that can help ease the relationship between a nurse and apprehensive child. Wearing print scrubs with animals, cartoon characters or even festive patterns may help children feel at ease or even help ease communication.

-Andrea Weissman

Meyer, D. (1992). “Children’s Responses to Nursing Attire.” Pediatric Nursing, 18 (2), 157-60.

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