The Evolution of Nurse Uniforms: Pantyhose and Beyond

For many, the image of a nurse in a long, flowing dress, adorning pantyhose, remains a cherished stereotype. However, modern nurse uniforms have evolved significantly, reflecting changes in workplace practices, personal preferences, and regional norms. This article delves into the history and current trends of nurse attire, focusing specifically on the relevance and frequency of pantyhose in nursing uniforms.

Past Uniforms and the Phased Withdrawal of Pantyhose

Back in the 1980s, nurses adhered to strict uniform codes that reflected traditional gender norms. Uniforms were classified into four types: a dress, a skirt with a pinafore, a skirt with long pants, and a skirt with shorts. The attire was highly gendered, with nurses instructed to wear pantyhose with their skirts. As gender references were removed from the uniform policy, the landscape shifted to a more uniform-enforced look, with pants and shirts becoming the norm.

My recollection of the last nurse in pantyhose dates back to 1986 or 1987. The shift was rapid, with most nurses opting for pants or long skirts. While a few nurses still wore pantyhose, the practice was largely a relic of a bygone era. The change was so significant that it was even featured in local media, much to the amusement of staff members who wore the old female uniform for a day as a lark.

Current Trends in Nurse Uniforms

Today, the focus is on comfort, practicality, and infection control. Most nurses in hospitals wear scrubs, which are practical, breathable, and easy to layer for various weather conditions. Scrubs do not require pantyhose, making them a more common choice among healthcare workers. However, whether nurses wear pantyhose can vary based on personal preference, workplace dress codes, and regional practices.

In some healthcare settings, particularly those with specific requirements for wearing skirts or dresses, pantyhose are still part of the uniform. In these cases, support pantyhose are often preferred to ensure the uniform remains smooth and professional. But for the majority of nurses, scrubs are the go-to attire, offering flexibility and ease of movement.

Personal Experiences and Perspectives

As an administrative assistant to an executive vice president at a large hospital, I can attest that the medical field is not typically associated with strict adherence to traditional attire. Still, many nurses opt for form-fitting pants that highlight their figures. This choice is often driven by comfort and aesthetic preferences, rather than professional requirements.

Reflecting on my own experience as a student nurse, my mother, a seasoned hairdresser, provided invaluable advice: wear support pantyhose and good shoes. This advice proved invaluable, and I continued to wear support pantyhose even after transitioning into more practical nurse attire like scrubs. Now, after 46 years, I still wear knee-high support hoses, a decision I believe has helped mitigate foot and vein problems.

Ultimately, the decision to wear pantyhose or not in nursing uniforms is a nuanced one. While some nurses still value the comfort and support provided by pantyhose, many prefer the practicality and ease of scrubs. The evolution of nurse uniforms reflects the broader changes in the healthcare industry, prioritizing comfort, efficiency, and professionalism.