title: Nursing professional attire: probing patient preferences to inform implementation.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to increase understanding of patient perceptions of nursing professional image, appearance, and identification to inform implementation of professional clinical attire.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  There is growing evidence of patient preference for and organizational implementation of professional clinical attire.
  
  
  METHODS
  A total of 350 randomly selected inpatients were surveyed using the professional image and patient preferences survey prior to a revision of the dress code for nursing.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Patients gave high scores for nursing image, appearance, and identification, with no support for color-coded uniforms.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Organizations should assess patient perceptions before implementation of a dress code for nursing.
authors: St Luke's Health System, Treasure Valley, 190 Bannock Street, Boise, ID 83712, USA. clavellj@slhs.org
authors: Joanne T
authors: JT
authors: Clavelle
authors: Miki
authors: M
authors: Goodwin
authors: Laura J
authors: LJ
authors: Tivis
mesh_terms: D003020:Clothing; D006801:Humans; D007061:Idaho; D009096:Multi-Institutional Systems; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital; D057240:Patient Preference; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires