Employees at Erlanger Health System in Chattanooga, Tenn., are abiding by a new color-coded dress policy — a strategy that is expected to boost morale and professionalism — according to a Chattanooga News report.
Beginning Jan. 1, clinical staff must wear solid-color scrubs in the hue designated for their department and job. Physicians employed by the hospital are required to wear white coats. Employees at the system’s children’s hospital can still wear kid-friendly prints, however.
Chief Nursing Executive Lynn Whisman said the policy improves professional appearance and promotes staff morale. She also said it enhances patient safety by helping patients and families identify employees by department.
Employees were given $50 vouchers for new scrubs or the option to use a payroll deduction to pay for their new uniform purchases.
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