The significance of scrub colours in healthcare
Scrubs are more than just workwear, they have an impact on you, and those around you. The colours we choose to wear send subtle messages to others, and illicit different emotions, and this applies to our scrubs.
In some cases, we use hospital scrubs colours to signify job roles or leadership positions, as well as choosing scrub colours simply for practical reasons. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular hospital scrubs colours and what they mean.
Calming blues
One of the most commonly worn colours across the NHS and private practices in the UK. Peace is one of the first things that come to our minds when we think of the colour blue. It may remind us of a summers sky or the tranquil sea. However, this is not the only reason blue scrubs are worn!
Not only is it calming, but blue is also associated with trust and confidence, which are feelings we want to associate with medical professionals.
In a more practical sense, blue is an easy colour on the eye, and works well in surgery, or accident and emergency. Blue (and green) are opposite to red on the colour wheel, which is why these colours are used in surgery.
They can improve the eyesight of the surgeon in the operating room, as looking at red colours for an extended period of time can cause vision issues. With lengthy surgeries, this can become a serious problem. The blue colour of the scrubs provides a “refresh” for their vision, and a clear distinction from the red.
Peaceful greens
Green scrubs serve the same practical reasons as blue scrubs for being used in surgery. The contrast between green and red provides a much needed reprieve for surgeons and assisting staff.
As green is a dominant colour in nature, we tend to associate it with the outdoors. This association makes us think of peace, tranquillity, and a fresh feeling.
In colour psychology, it is associated with growth, hopefulness, relaxation, and balance. Furthermore, it is considered one of the most restful colours for the human eye. This combination of feelings results in an overall positive reaction to the colour green. Which is beneficial in stressful medical environments.
You may have heard the term “vet nurse green” when it comes to workwear. An interesting article in the Vet Times suggests that the decision to wear green came from the British Small Animal Veterinary Association back in the 80s!
Typically, dark greens are a more popular option in private practices, with mid-green being more popular in the NHS.
Professional blacks & greys
Scrubs have come a long way in recent years. They are now made with more fashionable elements, functional storage, and innovative fabric. Along with this change, there has been a surge in the popularity of black and grey scrubs. Although some consider black and grey solemn colours, they are often regarded as professional, sleek, and luxurious.
We think of black as a formal and sophisticated colour, most commonly worn in private practices. Dentists are more likely to choose black or grey scrubs than medical professionals or vets.
When working as part of a team, black and grey scrubs can be easier to match with your colleagues, as they have less hues and options than a colour such as blue.
Along the same lines, black and grey scrubs tend to match the aesthetics of many businesses. Whether this is a dental practice or beauticians salon, many of us associate black and grey with a professional business.
Pretty pinks & reds
These colours are a newer addition to many scrub collections. They often are released for the spring and summer as a pretty pop of colour in your work wardrobe.
Even though the colour pink used to be worn by both genders, it has become more associated with femininity over time. This colour conveys a joyful, loving, and sweet energy. Lighter shades of pink are more soothing, while brighter, darker pinks are more energetic.
The colour red is associated with bold and passionate feelings, as well as a sense of confidence. Both colours tend to be worn more in beauty salons than medical practices. Not all organisations allow their staff to wear pink, so for this reason, pink tends to be chosen by business owners or freelance professionals.
Hospital scrubs colours
The colour of scrubs is not always chosen for their effects on others and the perception of the colour. Many organisations, like the NHS, use colours to signify the role someone is in.
Recently, a new NHS uniform was unveiled, giving Trusts the decision on whether they will use it or not. While blues and greens are commonly worn in hospitals, there will be differences to highlight each position.
For example, the new NHS uniform has a nurse in “hospital blue” with a navy trim, while a nursing associate with be wearing “sky blue”. It is difficult to generalise hospital scrubs colours to certain roles, as it can differ widely across the country.
We supply a variety of scrubs to hospitals, you can take a look at our NHS Essential range to check out our range of colours and sizes.
