From Gray Cloaks to White Blouses: The Evolution of Medical Uniforms

Before the 20th century, in Europe and America, doctors’ surgical attire resembled that of wealthy gentlemen. They wore gray cloaks and tall hats. At the time, modern concepts of sterilization and microbiology had not yet been introduced. As such, the primary purpose of a doctor’s attire in hospitals was to serve as a "shield" to protect them from dirt and the blood splatters of patients. The idea was that gray clothing appeared less dirty than other colors.

In medieval Europe, hospitals used gray or black doctor’s clothing and often added a “beak mask”. This terrifying-looking mask became a historical symbol of efforts against disease outbreaks.

The white blouse that we recognize today as the symbol of purity and innocence in the medical field only emerged around 100 years ago. Some sources claim that a doctor from the UK named Joseph was the first to wear a white blouse during surgeries.

Today, the white blouse has become increasingly popular. In some American universities, during graduation ceremonies, medical students wear white blouses as a symbol of the beginning of their careers in caring for public health.

The color white also symbolizes that doctors are focused, attentive, and meticulous in their work. Additionally, white clothing is easier to wash and sterilize, helping to protect patients.

However, many doctors believe that the white blouse is unattractive, plain, and not special. The only difference in surgical attire, the white blouse, lies in the hospital logo and personal information embroidered on the coat pocket, helping to build trust and making it easier for patients and their families to communicate with the doctor during treatment.

Why Do Surgeons Wear Blue Scrubs Instead of Other Colors?

Do you remember the TV show “Grey’s Anatomy,” where doctors wear blue surgical scrubs inside, along with a white blouse outside?

The reason for blue surgical uniforms instead of white or other colors is that these scrubs are designed to be comfortable and spacious, similar to sleepwear. The combination of a short blouse, V-neck, and loose pants makes the outfit breathable, comfortable, and convenient for the wearer.

In the operating room, doctors and nurses are required to wear blue scrubs, with long-sleeve surgical coats on top.

This use of blue has another reason: Visual perception. Try this simple test:

Image of “after image visual effects”

First, focus on the black dot in the red circle on the left for at least 30 seconds. Then quickly look at the black dot in the white circle on the right. You’ll notice the circle changes color to green or blue, not white. This phenomenon is called afterimage. If you stare at a color for too long and then look at something else, you see complementary colors forming. For example, red becomes green, blue becomes orange, yellow turns purple, etc.

In the operating room, where doctors often focus on internal or.gans and blo.od for long periods, they can experience color-induced visual fatigue. To prevent this, the operating room is designed with blue surroundings. This includes blue lights, drapes, and even walls. The blue color helps reduce eye strain and improves the focus of doctors during long surgeries.

Another reason surgeons wear blue is that internal organs are often red or pink, which can cause visual fatigue and make it hard to focus. By switching their gaze to the blue objects, the eyes can recover. This not only reduces stress on the eyes but also keeps the brain more sensitive to red, improving accuracy during the sur.gery.

I hope these explanations about why surgeons wear blue scrubs instead of other colors are helpful.