5 Reason Why Is Medical Clothing Typically Blue?

The color of medical clothing, particularly scrubs, has a fascinating history and serves several practical purposes. Blue scrubs, in particular, have become standard in many healthcare settings for a few important reasons:…..CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLES HERE

1. Calming Effect: Blue is a color often associated with calmness, tranquility, and trustworthiness. In high-stress environments like hospitals and operating rooms, blue scrubs can help create a calm atmosphere for both patients and medical staff. The color helps reduce anxiety and can make healthcare professionals appear more approachable, which is crucial for patient comfort and overall experience.

2. Visibility and Contrast: Blue clothing offers a high contrast to the red tones of blood, making it easier for medical professionals to spot any potential issues during procedures, especially in the operating room. The color helps them stay focused and clearly see important details without being distracted by visual clutter or colors that might blend with blood and other bodily fluids.

3. Hygiene and Cleanliness: Blue is a color that doesn’t show stains or dirt as easily as lighter colors, which is important in a medical environment where exposure to bodily fluids is frequent. The darker shade of blue also helps to maintain the appearance of cleanliness throughout long shifts, even if scrubs are worn for extended periods.

4. Historical Influence: The adoption of blue scrubs is partly due to historical practices. Surgeons in the early 20th century wore white, but white was often seen as too stark and difficult to keep clean, especially under intense lighting in operating rooms. The move to blue scrubs helped soften the bright, harsh lighting of the OR, providing a more comfortable environment for the surgical team.

5. Modern Standards: Today, blue scrubs are also a standard choice due to their association with professionalism and cleanliness in the medical field. Hospitals and healthcare institutions often have specific uniform requirements that include color-coded scrubs for different departments, with blue being a popular and practical choice for various medical specialties.

In summary, the choice of blue medical clothing stems from a combination of psychological, practical, and historical factors. It’s a color that enhances both the functionality and appearance of healthcare uniforms, contributing to a calm, clean, and focused environment for both patients and medical professionals.