Attitudes toward dress codes

Several studies have examined the effect of having nurses wear non-traditional styles of dress. Some studies indicate that non-traditional nursing attire may be beneficial when used with psychiatric populations. In one study, 168 adults were asked to react to one of 4 photographs of a nurse in different attire, ranging from traditional white dress with a cap and nurse's shoes to a casual white T-shirt, loose-fitting, pleated white skirt, and aerobic shoes with anklet socks. Results of the study indicated that the rating of the casually attired nurse was significantly lower that the ratings of the nurse in the other 3 pictures. Since the ratings of the other 3 pictures did not significantly differ, it is suggested that a neat appearance may be more important than the type or style of uniform per se. Therefore, the results indicate that a clean, neat appearance is key to being seen as a professional.