The Colorful History of Green Scrubs in Hospitals: Origins, Benefits, and Variations

Have you ever wondered why most doctors and nurses in hospitals wear green scrubs instead of the traditional white ones? In this article, we delve into the history, benefits, and variations of green scrubs in medical settings. We will explore the reasoning behind their widespread use and how different hospital positions can adopt different colored scrubs.

Origins and Benefits of Green Scrubs

The primary reason for the widespread adoption of green scrubs in hospitals is rooted in the perception of color and its impact on the visual perception of medical professionals. According to a well-established theory, green is an easier color to see for prolonged periods. During long surgical operations, doctors' eyes are less strained and stressed when they wear green scrubs.

From a more practical standpoint, green is the complementary color to red on the color wheel. Since surgeons often focus on red blood and tissues, wearing green scrubs makes it easier to see the various shades and nuances of these colors. This can be particularly beneficial during critical moments in surgery.

The Role of White Scrubs

It's important to note that while green scrubs are popular, they are often worn alongside white scrubs. White scrubs serve a different purpose. They are worn by individuals who need to be easily recognizable, such as nurses or in cases where contamination control is critical.

For example, if a nurse suspects something is contaminated in a surgical environment, she might joke about it, as mentioned in a hypothetical scenario: “Oh, I see you had the lasagna for lunch again, Jesse, or is that blood from Mr. Jones in room 222?” This humor reflects the practical reality of hospital life, where clear communication and quick identification of issues are essential.

Evolution of Scrub Colors in Hospitals

The trend towards green scrubs in hospitals can be traced back to a broader change in the healthcare industry. White scrubs were eventually phased out as religious orders began to exit the healthcare sector and hospitals and clinics were sold to for-profit and non-profit secular organizations.

Green scrubs have several practical advantages. They are a neutral color, making them suitable for most hospital environments. Additionally, the dye used to produce green scrubs is often cheaper. This color is also versatile, fitting almost any department within a hospital, from emergency medicine to pediatrics and OB/GYN.

While there are some variations, such as colorful or cheerful scrubs for pediatric and obstetric units, the vast majority of hospital staff wear green or white scrubs. The use of different colors for specific positions or roles, however, is often seen as elitist and unnecessary.

Individual Experiences

Variances in the colors and styles of hospital scrubs can also be found based on the institution. At my place of work, for instance, registered nurses wear navy blue scrubs, medical interns wear white, medical registrars wear apple green, and the doctor in charge of the emergency department wears black ones.

These color choices reflect the unique needs and environments of each department. However, it's not uncommon for healthcare professionals to wear a wide range of colors, such as navy blue, purple, pink, black, and even red. Some facilities have strict dress code requirements, while others may only care that staff are present and appropriately attired.

Conclusion

The choice of green scrubs in hospitals is largely due to their practical benefits and the ease of identification of medical professionals. Their versatility and the presence of white scrubs serve to reinforce the unique roles and responsibilities of different healthcare positions.

Whether you work as a surgeon, a nurse, or a medical intern, the decision to wear green scrubs is often made with practicality in mind. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the use of green scrubs will likely remain a standard in hospitals across the world.