Surgeon's uniform: what should a quality one have?

I. The Distinction of the Surgeon's Uniform

Surgeons' scrubs differ from general clinical attire due to the demanding and rigorous nature of the operating room. Surgeons work under strict conditions: bright lights, lengthy procedures, and constant movement. Therefore, their clothing must strike a perfect balance between functionality and comfort. High-quality surgical scrubs are essential for maintaining concentration and physical and mental stamina for extended periods.

II. Critical Elements of an Excellent Surgeon's Uniform

A uniform that meets operating room standards must possess high-performance characteristics that go beyond just the fabric:

Hygiene and Protection: The primary characteristic is the barrier against fluid penetration, in addition to possessing antimicrobial properties. This level of protection is the foundation of biosafety.

Ergonomic Flexibility: The design should include elastic cuts and strategic reinforcements to facilitate freedom of movement. This is vital for prolonged standing, bending, and the precision movements required in surgery.

Lightweight and Breathable: Materials must be lightweight and highly breathable to mitigate the feeling of heat in the operating room. Reducing sweat and discomfort is key to maintaining the surgical team's concentration.

Clean Design: A surgeon's uniform should be simple and unadorned. The absence of unnecessary elements prevents accidental snags and reduces the possibility of harboring microorganisms.

III. Color and its Impact on the Surgical Environment

The choice of color in a surgeon's uniform has a very specific functional and psychological purpose:

Reduced Eye Strain: The most commonly used colors in the operating room are blue and green. These shades are scientifically selected to reduce the afterimage phenomenon and the eye strain experienced by the surgeon when looking away from the red color of blood.

Psychological Effect: Blue and green convey a sense of calm, stability, and cleanliness. This helps maintain the team's focus and, in the brief interaction before anesthesia, can contribute to a more relaxed environment for the patient.

Modern Trends: Although blue and green dominate, some modern institutions are experimenting with neutral colors or custom tones for specific departments, always respecting the premise of not generating annoying reflections.

IV. Practical Guide for Selecting a Surgeon's Uniform

When choosing a surgical uniform, functionality should guide the decision:

Role Differentiation: Consider whether the design should vary depending on the role (primary surgeon, assistant, or surgical nurse). For example, surgeons may prefer more shoulder room for manipulation.

Cut Analysis: Pay special attention to how the shoulder and waist areas fit. These points should allow for maximum range of motion without the fabric being overly tight.

Maintenance and Durability: Prioritize fabrics that are easy to wash and offer quick drying to withstand rigorous and frequent sterilization and disinfection processes.

The Fit-In is Essential: Never buy surgical scrubs without confirming that they fit comfortably in working positions. It is vital to try on the scrubs and perform bending and stretching movements to ensure there will be no restrictions during surgery.

A proper surgical scrub set is much more than just work clothes; it's an essential component that ensures the efficiency and safety of the entire surgical procedure. Choosing the right scrub set, one that balances technical comfort and protection, will allow you to enter the operating room with greater focus, concentration, and confidence.