Improving equity and inclusion: One nursing school's journey to update the dress code

Introduction

A diverse healthcare workforce improves the quality of patient care. A nursing school's approach to dress code policies can either welcome or marginalize diverse students. This article describes one nursing school's approach to revising the student nurse dress code policy to promote inclusion and belonging. Our aim is to provide an example for nursing school policymakers as they consider updates to their dress code policies.

Background

Nursing dress codes have long been contentious. Patients' views on acceptable nursing dress and professionalism vary around the world. Patients agree that nursing dress codes need to identify the individual nurse as a member of the healthcare team. However, it is nurses' respectful demeanor that gives patients confidence in the nurses' ability to provide safe care. The concept of professionalism is shifting from a focus on appearance to action. Strict adherence to nursing school dress codes may inequitably affect students.

Making a Collaborative Change.

We delineate the considerations and collaborative process that one midwestern nursing school's stakeholders used to adapt a dress code to welcome all students. Through this collaborative process, the new dress code policy eliminated restrictions on hair color and style, piercings, and tattoos.

Discussion

The formal changes inspired other student-focused initiatives, such as including students in the selection of flexible uniform styles and the expansion of a uniform closet to reduce costs and promote sustainability.

Conclusion

Nursing schools may benefit from frequent reviews of dress codes to be safe, equitable, and welcoming. Through inclusive dress code policies, nursing schools can support all students and contribute to a diverse healthcare workforce to improve patient outcomes.