Medical scrubs are part of the massive medical textile industry, which is expected to balloon to $23 billion by the year 2025. Among the significant growth drivers of the market includes the rising demand for geriatric care.
While the muted colors are always associated with medical scrubs, no rule prohibits brighter hues in most hospitals. That is both a blessing and a curse. For people who like to wear loud colors, it opens up a lot of possibilities. However, on the downside, the wrong choice can evoke an entirely different meaning for patients and colleagues alike.
The psychology of bright colors could never be denied. Toddlers and children gravitate toward the warmer shades like red, orange, pink, and yellow, rather than the more muted blue, brown, or gray. Also, if you are going to ask somebody to paint a happy hue, you will likely see the colors of the rainbow on the finished product.
The perception is confirmed by a Japanese study, which concluded that associating bright colors with happiness is a universal concept.
With that, what emotions are associated with the different colors of medical scrubs?
- Red — Red is the color of energy and dynamism. When people see red, they also associate it with courage, strength, and heroism. It can also grab the attention of the person or fuel action or inaction (as in a stoplight). What you also need to know is that this particular color helps increase the appetite of the person looking at it.
- Black — It is the color most associated with elegance and class. You can appear to be more sophisticated and dependable when you wear black scrubs. People will also have the impression that you are efficient at your job.
- Purple — The color is associated with an elevated consciousness. It is the color of mysticism and spiritual awareness. However, people tend to believe that you are more truthful when you wear this shade.
- Pink — It is the color of warmth. Nurses who wear pink medical scrubs are perceived to be more accommodating, friendly, and nurturing.
- Royal blue — Those who wear this color are believed to be more dependable under pressure. Patients who are already anxious would feel calmer when they see a nurse in blue. Patients also tend to trust them more as blue is the color of intelligence.
- Green — One of the most common colors of scrubs in the hospital is green. It is a shade that is most associated with healing and recovery. It is also the color of harmony and peace. A nurse wearing green is perceived to be generous with very good judgment.
- Brown — When you see a nurse in a brown uniform, you subconsciously feel that they are going to be reliable and friendly. They will support you in your path towards recovery. They would be straightforward with you and not beat around the bush when you ask a question
So, to summarize, warmer colors tend to evoke a lighter feeling. When you look at the color wheel, you will notice that red, orange, and yellow are beside each other. They are typically associated with joy and optimism. Meanwhile, cooler colors refer to blue, purple, and green. They evoke a sense of calm and peace. On the downside, it will also enhance the feeling of sadness.