title: Contributing to a Quality Patient Experience: Applying Evidence Based Practice to Support Changes in Nursing Dress Code Policies
abstract: The public image of nurse professionalism is important. Attributes of a professional nurse, such as caring, attentive, empathetic, efficient, knowledgeable, competent, and approachable, or lack thereof, can contribute positively or negatively to the patient experience. Nurses at a hospital in central northeast Pennsylvania offer their story as they considered the impact of a wide variety of individual uniform and dress choices. This article describes an evidence based practice project and survey created to increase understanding of patient perceptions regarding the professional image of nurses in this facility. Exploring patient perception of nurse image provided insight into what patients view as important. A team approach included the voice of nurses at different levels in the process. Ultimately, this work informed a revision of the health system nursing dress code. The study team also reflects on challenges, next steps in the process, and offers recommendations based on their experiences.
authors.forename: Margaret Mary
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: West
authors.forename: Debra
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Wantz
authors.forename: Patricia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Campbell
authors.forename: Greta
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Rosler
authors.forename: Dawn
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Troutman
authors.forename: Crystal
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Muthler
keywords: professionalism; nurse image; patient experience; patient perceptions; dress code; nursing uniforms; evidence-based practice; shared governance