Why Are Scrubs Called Scrubs?

Depending on your industry, there are many names for your uniform. You call them medical uniforms, nursing uniforms, surgical uniforms or the large variety of other names used. But the short, concise name for your uniform is 'scrubs'.

As you know, scrubs are a piece of PPE (personal protective equipment). They are worn in hospitals, clinics and other places of care, where hygiene and cleanliness is of the utmost importance.

However, have you ever wondered why they are called scrubs? How did they arrive at that name from their full name? Read on and we'll tell you all about it!

A Brief History...

Firstly, scrubs began during the Spanish flu, when education on how viruses spread lead to the wearing of masks. So, doctors began to wear protective clothing over their regular clothing. At first this clothing was white, but then changed to green for more contrast against blood.

Why are They Called Scrubs?

Nurses uniforms are called 'scrubs' for two reasons:

• Before nurses start their shift at work, they do something called 'scrubbing up'. This is sterilising yourself and your belongings. This includes washing your hands and putting on sterile scrubs. After a while, nurses started calling them 'scrubs' to symbolise this process.
• They could also be called scrubs due to their cleaning in between shifts. It is important to clean your scrubs or, in other words, scrub your scrubs, each shift. So, the name for nursing uniforms could also symbolise this!

It's important to note that scrubs have come a long way since traditional theatre scrubs. Nowadays, you can find a wide variety of trendy, modern scrubs that are breathable and fit like a glove. So why not 'scrub up' and admire how far we've come!

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That is all from us for now. See you next week!

DDHQ x

Diamond Designs Uniforms are the leading supplier of scrubs and beauty uniforms in Ireland. Trusted by hospitals, clinics and beauty salons nationwide. Diamond Designs are proud to provide nursing uniforms and tunics for beauticians to the hardworking people of Ireland.

To place an order, visit http://diamonddesigns.ie/. To make an enquiry, call (042) 9746333. Or, e-mail aisling@diamonddesignsuniforms.com.