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.
Keyphrases
- healthcare
- mental health
- quality improvement
- primary care
- deep learning
- end stage renal disease
- case report
- ejection fraction
- palliative care
- chronic kidney disease
- total knee arthroplasty
- newly diagnosed
- public health
- social media
- machine learning
- peritoneal dialysis
- emergency department
- prognostic factors
- cross sectional
- patient reported
- electronic health record
- long term care