From the Guidelines
For rapid response team resident physicians, scrubs are the more appropriate attire compared to formal business casual attire due to their practical advantages in emergency situations and reduced risk of cross-contamination. Scrubs offer several benefits, including freedom of movement during procedures, easy recognition by other healthcare team members and patients, and the ability to quickly change if contaminated with bodily fluids 1. The material of scrubs is designed to be durable and comfortable during prolonged periods of physical activity. Additionally, scrubs are typically laundered according to healthcare facility protocols with antimicrobial detergents at high temperatures, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the appropriateness of attire for rapid response team resident physicians include:
- The need for freedom of movement during emergency procedures
- The importance of easy recognition by other healthcare team members and patients
- The risk of cross-contamination with bodily fluids
- The durability and comfort of the attire during prolonged periods of physical activity
- The laundry protocols in place for the attire to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. As noted in a study on guidelines for clothing in the operating theatre, the wearer's skin contaminates the clothes with flakes and bacteria at its surface, highlighting the importance of attire that can be easily laundered and changed 1.
In terms of specific policies, many hospitals have guidelines regarding attire for rapid response teams that favor scrubs due to their functional benefits and reduced risk of cross-contamination. While business casual attire may project professionalism in certain clinical settings, the benefits of scrubs outweigh these considerations in emergency response scenarios where clinical efficiency and infection control take precedence. Overall, the use of scrubs as attire for rapid response team resident physicians is supported by their practical advantages and reduced risk of cross-contamination, making them the more appropriate choice.
From the Research
Attire for Rapid Response Team Resident Physicians
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest the most appropriate attire for a Rapid Response Team (RRT) resident physician.
- The studies focus on the implementation, effectiveness, and performance of RRTs, as well as the role of resident physicians and advanced practice providers in leading these teams 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- None of the studies mention attire or dress code for RRT resident physicians.
- Therefore, there is no research-based recommendation for whether scrubs or formal business casual attire is more appropriate for RRT resident physicians.