Carolyn Cumper
Carolyn Cumper's career is a diverse and dynamic journey across continents and professions. Starting as a Woman Patrol Officer in the British South Africa Police Force in Rhodesia, she transitioned to the Special Branch and later to an administrative role in the Rhodesian Prime Minister's Department. After a stint in security and accounting for a multinational company, Carolyn moved to the UK in 1988, training as a Paediatric Nurse specializing in Palliative Care at the University of Portsmouth. In 2001, she emigrated to Australia, working as the Deputy Hospice Manager at Very Special Kids in Melbourne, a palliative care hospice. Carolyn's final career shift saw her leveraging her medical and commercial experience to contribute to the growth of Medshop, a business venture. Her journey, spanning from law enforcement to healthcare and business, showcases her adaptability and dedication to making a significant impact in various fields.
Latest Articles
October 14, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
How to Become a Nurse in Australia
Nurses are some of the hardest-working people in Australia – and with hard work comes a fantastic sense of fulfilment. Nurses are in high demand across Australia’s health service right now. Between 2028 and 2033, there’s set to be 80,500 new job openings for registered nurses. That’s an increase of 24.5% over a space of five years! Whether you’re based in NSW, Queensland, or Sydney, in this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about how to become a nurse in Australia. We’ll explore study routes, experience you’ll need to gain, and which career routes are open to you once you graduate. How to Become a Nurse Before studying to become a nurse in Australia, it’s worth knowing the difference between an EN (an enrolled nurse) and an RN (a registered nurse). Enrolled nurses typically work with RNs in support roles. They’re responsible for planning and administering patient care, but are supervised by RNs with Bachelor of Nursing degrees. Unlike RNs, you need a Diploma of Nursing to become an EN. Registered nurses make up most of the nursing workforce in Australia. They’re high qualified healthcare professionals who might specialise in a specific area, such as geriatric or pediatric care. They can lead teams in unit manager capacities and often hold the most responsibility in specific departments. One of the most appealing reasons to become an RN is the impressive salary range. According to data published by Talent.com, the average RN receives a salary of around $83,700 per year. That goes as low as $78,000, and as high as $109,000! To become an EN, you’ll need to: Obtain background checks (so you can work with children and vulnerable people) Study your Diploma of Nursing Register with the AHPRA, or Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency If you want to study further, enrol for a Bachelor of Nursing The route to becoming an RN is a little more involved – which is why we’ve fleshed out the process in a few steps below. 1. Complete a Bachelor of Nursing at University The Bachelor of Nursing is the standard degree you’ll need to complete to become a registered nurse in Australia. Specifically, you’ll learn about pharmacology, anatomy, surgery, and physiology – with some secondary education in mental health, pediatric care, and more. Entry requirements for this type of bachelor degree might vary depending on where you study nursing. However, strong grades in science subjects are always a good starting point. You can study for English language BN nursing courses at any of the following accredited universities in Australia: Deakin University Griffith University Monash University RMIT University The University of Adelaide The University of Melbourne The University of Queensland The University of Sydney University of Technology in Sydney The University of Wollongong Of these establishments, Times Higher Education ranks Melbourne, Monash, and Sydney as the best for people studying to get into healthcare and medicine careers. This is based on a complex methodology – but it’s also worth listening to what students have to say. For example, Deakin University is one of the highest-rated in our list according to students, largely for the quality of course materials and support available. Many of the clients we’ve supported over the years have started searching for courses using ActiveStudy, which helps align you to degrees and universities with simple assessments. I honestly recommend it if you’re unsure of where to start. You can usually expect a BN degree to take up to three years. By comparison, it takes two years, on average, to obtain a Diploma of Nursing. Before applying for a BN, do also make sure you’re cleared with a Working With Children Check and a Police Check. You should also complete a full adult vaccination program. This is important simply because you’ll be working with vulnerable people in critical health care settings. 2. Gain Clinical Experience Clinical experience in nursing helps you to put your theory training into practice with a leading clinic or healthcare provider. Many leading universities will offer clinical placements as part of your BN program. Clinical experience as part of your BN will also give your tutors a chance to see how you perform in a physical setting. It’s a great opportunity for educators to help steer you in the right direction, and for you to ask questions about your practice. Gaining this type of experience also helps to give you confidence when you’re working in the real world. Most of the nurses we’ve helped to support over the years swear by their clinical work experience – it’s a rite of passage in many ways, too. If you already have a good idea of what you’d like to specialise in when you enter public health for real, consider looking for placements in specific areas. For example, you could gain experience at a community health centre, at aged care facilities, or in a clinical practice specifically for antenatal and postnatal care. Many people I’ve supported over the years have highly recommended looking for courses that specifically mention placements. I happen to agree – after all, hunting around for opportunities isn’t easy when you’re studying full-time. 3. Register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) After graduation, it’s time to actually register as a nurse! To do this, you’ll need to apply via the AHPRA, or the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. The AHPRA ensures that people employed in clinics and healthcare settings are legally allowed to do so – and that they have the requisite experience and qualifications to care for others. It’s important to re-register once a year to refresh your membership. From there, you’re fully registered and almost ready to start working as a nurse anywhere in Australia. 4. Maintain Continuing Professional Development with NMBA After registering with AHPRA, you also need to sign up with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, or the NMBA. The NMBA adds an extra layer of protection for the public. Register and pass checks applied by their board, and you will be fully cleared and ready to start working as a nurse. However, you might want to start thinking about further professional development. Do you want to continue working as an RN, or would you like to develop as a midwife, a mental health nurse, or as an oncology or end-of-life specialist? There will be plenty of opportunities to explore different nursing specialties once you find your first working placement. Take your time to reach out for advice and guidance on tertiary Australian nursing qualification paths. There are plenty of postgraduate degrees and opportunities available for qualified nurses to study while they work full-time. If you gain a Master of Nursing degree, you could end up leading or teaching a team of your own. Nursing Careers and Job Roles Once you graduate from a nursing degree and gain experience, there’s a world of opportunities. Some of our clients work in nursing specialities as broad as midwifery, aged care, and mental health. We even offer support if you’re working as a nurse educator! Here are some of the most rewarding nursing care roles and career opportunities available to you across Australia. Remember, too, that the average nurse salary for each role may vary. Registered Nurse (RN) Registered nurses, or RNs, are fully qualified health practitioners. They typically take full accountability during patient care, which typically means monitoring their health and providing medication. Some RNs even measure teams and units of their own. Nurse Practitioner (NP) Nurse practitioners, or NPs, are RNs with additional qualifications and experience. They typically have Master’s degrees and are considered the most senior nurses in their departments. The title “Nurse Practitioner” is authorised by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Enrolled Nurse (EN) Enrolled nurses, or ENs, help to plan and carry out care for patients across all age groups. However, they act secondary to RNs, who supervise their activities. ENs frequently make up nursing teams headed by RNs. Pediatric Nurse Pediatric nurses specialise in caring for children. They liaise with families, offer pastoral care to young people, and ensure babies and children in hospital settings receive the diagnostics and medicine they require. Midwife Midwives specifically assist pregnant and nursing mothers. They support women through their pregnancies, providing checkups at-home and in clinics, assist with birth plans, offer dietary and general advice, and support births. They also keep regular checkups with mothers after delivery. Clinical Nurse Specialist Clinical nurse specialists are high-level healthcare operatives who frequently support the work of junior nurses in their teams. They carry out detailed patient assessments and help to develop treatment plans. These specialists also develop lesson plans and education materials. Mental Health Nurse Mental health nurses provide a range of care for people who are experiencing mental illness. They can help to diagnose conditions, promote healthy practices, and develop care plans. They can also intervene in specific cases and work to prevent mental and physical episodes. Conclusion The nursing profession might have its challenges, but it remains one of the most rewarding career paths available across Australia. Regardless of where your graduate certificate and nursing career take you, remember you always have an ally in MedShop. We’re here to offer you all the clinical supplies you need through university and beyond – into postgraduate study and the workforce. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
October 08, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Smart Fobs – The Future of the Humble Nurses Watch
For generations, nurses have relied on simple, yet effective tools to help them care for their patients. Among these tools, the fob watch has remained a constant, pinned to uniforms and used to keep track of vital signs, medication schedules, and critical patient care tasks. While the healthcare industry has progressed in leaps and bounds over the course of the past two centuries, the nurses fob watch remains pretty much as it was. Sure, we’ve moved from analogue to digital in some cases, and new materials such as silicone have replaced metal and leather, but on the face of it, the fob watch is essentially the same piece of equipment it always has been. As we move deeper into the 21st century, new innovations like smartwatches are poised to transform this humble timepiece, offering nurses unprecedented access to real-time data and enhanced functionality. In this article, we explore the past, present, and future of nurses' watches and how cutting-edge technology could revolutionize the way healthcare professionals work. Here then, we take a look at what the future might look like for nurses watches and how intelligent tech might change the face of nursing forever. Smartwatches and Healthcare Smartwatches are at the very cutting edge of the technological curve. As microchips and circuitry have become ever smaller, the development of miniaturised computers that can be worn on the wrist is like something out of a science fiction novel. They feature all kinds of sensors and instruments that can measure, time, control, and record both digital and real-world events. What’s more, once part of a larger system, smartwatches can ensure that nurses and other hospital staff are connected at all times, increasing efficiency in hospitals and clinics. The healthcare applications are numerous and exciting for many in the industry, however, there is still a long way to go before they are seen as standard equipment for nurses. Here are just a few of the ways that smartwatches may be used in the future: Notification Systems — Smartwatches can be used for instant notifications from both medical staff and patients. Whether it’s messages regarding staffing problems or notifications when a patient requires medication, receiving the information directly on your wrist can save time and help nurses to be more efficient. Messaging Systems — Pagers are widely disliked by healthcare workers since messages often get lost. Of course, smartphones have gone some way to solving this problem, however, they can be awkward and unwieldly when on the job. Like smartphones, smartwatches also provide an archived record of all messages sent ensuring increased responsibility for all staff. Patient Updates — Accessing patient updates and other critical information on a personal device that’s conveniently accessible is ideal. Smartwatches can send all the information nurses require instantly, with accurate, real-time updates on patient records always available. Vital Signs Monitoring — Smartwatches may have a role to play in the monitoring of patient’s vital signs and threshold alarms. If a patient’s condition changes, real-time notifications can be sent directly to the device. Task Management — Managing day-to-day tasks is always challenging for busy nurses. Smartwatches can streamline the process by providing timely notifications of when tasks need to be completed. They can also monitor tasks completed and provide an overview of working processes on any given day. Voice Control — Removing the need to complete calculations or enter data using your hands is a great way to maintain hygiene standards and improve efficiency through hands-free operation. Instant Access to a World of Knowledge — Of course, smartwatches are connected to the Internet, and having improved access to both general knowledge and hospital or clinic materials ensures everyone is on the same page. Smartwatches and Nurses It’s true that the many benefits of smartwatches for nurses are generally directed towards providing better care for patients and increasing productivity in the workplace. However, they also offer benefits to the individual through a variety of health and wellbeing orientated features. Almost all smartwatches today provide monitoring and recording of heart rate, blood pressure, and steps walked, alongside a huge range of apps that encourage mindfulness and other wellbeing-based activities to help support nurses through particularly stressful days. Smart Fobs and the Future Today’s smartwatches have so much great technology packed inside their tiny form factors that it’s difficult not to fall in love with them. However, there remains one issue that is hindering mass adoption for nurses and hospitals in general—they must be worn on the wrist for many of the features to work effectively. This, of course, can be problematic when some clinical hygiene standards dictate that nothing must be worn below the elbow. However, innovation never stands still, and today, smart fobs for nurses are beginning to make waves. Most recently, as part of the 2018 Young Entrepreneur Program 2018, nursing student Jordan Kidd has designed a silicone fob that provides easy access to Apple Watches. The fob can be used as a standalone piece, or in conjunction with a standard strap for the best of both worlds. In the future, Jordan hopes to develop a referencing app that will allow access to useful information such as vital sign ranges, electrolyte levels, and drug calculation formulas to ensure the smart fob is equally as effective as its wrist-worn counterpart. As healthcare continues to advance, so too will the tools that nurses and other medical professionals use in their daily work. While the traditional fob watch remains a beloved and practical accessory, the rise of smartwatches and other wearable technologies is paving the way for new innovations in the medical field. Whether it’s improving patient care through real-time updates or enhancing personal wellbeing, the future of nurses' watches looks promising. For a deeper dive into some of the best watches currently available for nurses and medical professionals, check out this comprehensive guide here. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
September 24, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
The Future of Nursing: Robot Nurses, AI, and Automation in Healthcare
Now that the holiday madness is well and truly behind us, and the dawn of a new decade is slowly making itself felt, it seems like as good a time as any to consider what the future holds for the nursing practice. We’re moving ever deeper into the 21st century, and for the sci-fi fans of the world, that means the robot apocalypse is drawing closer by the day. All jokes aside, however, the latest push for increased automation, alongside developments in artificial intelligence and medical robots, reveals something peculiar about our obsession with technology. Across a whole range of industries, it seems we’re engineering ourselves out of a job, and the question is not IF robots will take part or all of any specific position, but WHEN. Technology is primarily designed to make people’s lives easier, however, we’re increasingly removing the “human” from the equation entirely, and the fear surrounding a less human approach within the healthcare setting is particularly palpable. So, if the rise of the healthcare robot is inevitable, where does that leave human nurses? And to what extent will AI nurses or other technologies render human contact obsolete? Here, we take a look at what the future of the nursing profession holds as increasing automation and robotic tech begin to be the norm. What Is a Robot Nurse? A robot nurse refers to an automated machine designed to assist or complement healthcare workers in a healthcare setting. These robots are equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced robotics to perform certain nursing care tasks, easing the workload on human nurses. While they are still in their early stages, robot nurses are poised to transform the future of patient care by handling repetitive tasks, assisting in diagnostics, and improving overall efficiency in healthcare facilities. Purpose of Robot Nurses The primary purpose of robot nurses is to support human nurses by handling routine tasks such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with elderly care, managing patient data, and delivering medical supplies. This allows nurses to focus on more complex tasks that require critical thinking, human interaction, and compassion, which are vital for effective nursing care. Robot Nurse Tasks Robot nurses can perform a variety of tasks that reduce the workload on healthcare workers and enhance the patient experience. Some key tasks include: Monitoring vital signs like blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. Assisting in lifting and moving patients, reducing the physical strain on human nurses. Managing medication deliveries and other routine tasks. Collecting patient data for further analysis, potentially improving diagnostics. Scheduling appointments and managing administrative duties in healthcare facilities. Robotic Nurses, Automation, and Advancing AI Believe it or not, there are already a few basic assistive robots in Japan going about their business! However, while these may be an indicator of what is to come, there’s little question over whether these supplemental robots can replace human nurses for the time being. Today, medical robots are much more likely to take charge of heavy lifting here and there or offer simple scheduling and appointment-making functionality. However, the question remains as to where we draw the line on the types of functions a healthcare robot should fulfill. Most people today will enter their healthcare facilities and instantly engage with a computer to register their attendance. Before that, they may make appointments through an app or online, and after, results are automatically sent to their phone or email. It makes sense that these basic functions are fully autonomous, ensuring real healthcare workers spend less time on admin and more with their patients. What is perhaps less clear is the role AI nurses will take as the technology continues to progress. Will AI nurses/doctors, combined with robotic technology, begin to identify health issues and make the requisite tests automatically? Or will AI even begin to predict a patient’s potential and future health simply by analyzing profiles? In truth, there are still plenty of speculative ideas surrounding advancing AI technology, but until real-world use cases are proposed, this kind of tech is unlikely to change the industry in the near future. How Robot Nurses Can Benefit the Future of Health Care The rise of assistive robots presents many opportunities for improving patient care. These robots could handle routine tasks, freeing up healthcare workers to focus on more complex or emotionally demanding aspects of nursing care. As AI improves, robots may assist in elderly care, offering constant monitoring and companionship, which could help reduce decision-making fatigue and errors in diagnostics. Robot Nurses and Nurse Burnout Prevention One of the critical issues facing the healthcare industry, especially following the pandemic, is healthcare worker burnout. Assistive robots and AI technology could alleviate some of the workload, handling time-consuming tasks like data entry, patient monitoring, and even basic diagnostics, allowing nurses to focus more on direct patient interaction and advanced nursing care. Challenges to Robot Nurse Integration While there are clear benefits, integrating medical robots into the healthcare setting comes with challenges. Resistance from healthcare workers, the complexity of implementing new algorithms, and concerns about losing the "human touch" in patient care are significant barriers. Overcoming these challenges will be critical to ensuring that human nurses and robots work in harmony. Conclusion — Nurse Robots are Coming but Your Job is Safe While there are multiple avenues to explore in the case of robotic nursing, the technology and its adoption within the healthcare setting are still in their infancy. From both a patient and a professional perspective, there are also other considerations that go beyond the time and cost efficiencies that tech is predicted to bring. People are still concerned that human connection remains an integral part of 21st-century nursing care, and there’s little point in arguing that nurses or other healthcare professionals can be replaced in this respect. So, can human nurses be replaced by robots in the future? In some respects, yes, however, this is more likely to be in areas of administration or labor rather than in aspects of patient care—at least for now. Robots and automated tech will essentially just be another tool for nurses to bring increased efficiency to their jobs, and while there are many exciting developments coming out of the healthcare tech industry, including those that make nurses' jobs easier, it’s probably safe to say that you won’t be out of a job anytime soon. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
September 18, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Your Guide to Scrubs Hats
For many healthcare professionals, a scrub hat is an integral part of the work uniform. An important way of maintaining hygiene in the operating room and other sterile areas, scrub hats are worn by surgeons, scrub nurses and other medical workers who want to protect their patients from potential infection. Throughout my career, from being a Pediatric Nurse in the UK to serving as a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia, I've seen firsthand the vital role that scrub caps play in maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring patient safety. Why Doctors Wear Scrub Caps Doctors and nurses who work in sterile areas, like operating theatres, are often required to wear scrub caps. Like a face mask, gown, surgical gloves and other PPE, scrub hats help to prevent cross-contamination and keep the area clean and safe. A medical professional working in a sterile environment will be required to wear a scrub hat whether they have short hair, thick hair or virtually no hair at all. This is because hair is packed full of bacteria, even when it’s washed on a regular basis. The human scalp contains around 4,838 core bacteria and 1,220 transient bacteria. This bacteria can be transferred to other surfaces when hairs fall out. In most cases, the bacteria will be harmless. However, if it falls into an open wound during an operation, it could put patients at serious risk of infection. The Purpose of a Scrubs Hat The purpose of a scrub hat is to prevent hair, and the bacteria it contains, from contaminating sterile spaces and causing infection. We lose around 100 hairs from our scalps every single day. Every one of these hairs carries bacteria. Wearing a surgical scrub cap in sterile areas, and when treating vulnerable patients, will help to stop these hairs causing infection. It will also help to keep the operating room clean, tidy and germ-free. Another benefit of wearing a scrub hat is that it keeps hair tucked back and out of the way. This can minimise distractions in the operating room, make medical professionals feel more comfortable and prevent doctors and nurses from touching their hair and contaminating their hands. Choosing the Right Size Choosing the right size scrub cap is essential for ensuring a snug fit, which is key to both comfort and infection control. A well-fitting scrub cap should contain hair completely, preventing hair particles from escaping and potentially contaminating the sterile field. The cap should fit snugly around the forehead and the nape of your neck to ensure that no stray hairs can escape. If you have longer or thicker hair, a bouffant or ponytail scrub cap with an elasticated back may offer a more secure fit. Selecting a cap that is too tight can cause discomfort, particularly during long shifts. On the other hand, a cap that is too loose may not provide adequate protection. During my time in the UK and Australia, I’ve found that the right fit not only ensures safety but also contributes to a more focused and effective performance in demanding environments. Importance of Wearing a Scrub Cap Wearing a scrub cap is more than just a hygiene measure; it is a key part of infection control protocols. Scrub caps act as a barrier, preventing potential contaminants like hair and sweat from entering the sterile environment. As someone who has worked in various healthcare settings, I've witnessed how scrub cap protocols have evolved to meet stringent cleanliness standards, including the use of antimicrobial materials to minimize the buildup of bacteria. Scrub caps also support the professionalism and neat appearance of healthcare providers. In my experience, patients and their families often associate a clean and tidy uniform, including the scrub cap, with competence and care. It reinforces the idea that healthcare professionals are taking all necessary precautions to ensure patient safety. Placing and Adjusting the Scrub Cap Correctly placing and adjusting the scrub cap is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step process: Tilt Your Head Forward: Start by tilting your head forward to gather your hair into the cap. This technique helps contain all hair strands, ensuring a secure fit. Secure the Cap: Place the cap over your head, ensuring that it covers your hairline, forehead, and the nape of your neck. The elasticated back should sit comfortably to provide a snug fit. Adjust Ties and Knot: If your scrub cap has ties, adjust them around the back of your head, securing them with a secure knot. Make sure the cap feels snug but not too tight, to avoid discomfort during long hours of wear. Check the Fit: Make sure that no stray hairs are sticking out. Adjust the cap as needed to maintain a tight seal around the edges, especially around the ears and forehead. In my various roles, I've learned that correct placement and adjustment of the scrub cap can make a significant difference in infection control and personal comfort during shifts. Different Types of Scrub Hats There are several types of scrub caps to suit different hair types and preferences: Ponytail Scrub Cap: Ideal for those with longer hair, these caps have an opening at the back to keep long hair in place, often featuring a large pouch. Bouffant Scrub Cap: Offers even more space than ponytail caps, making them suitable for those with thick or voluminous hair. Pixie Scrub Cap: A closer fit, perfect for shorter hair, providing a neat appearance while ensuring a snug fit. Maintaining Your Scrub Cap To maintain the cap’s fabric integrity and ensure longevity, frequent washing is essential. Handle with care, following the manufacturer's washing instructions to preserve antimicrobial properties and ensure thorough cleaning. Disposable caps are also an option for single-use needs, providing an extra layer of infection control. The Colours of Scrubs Hats Like scrubs themselves, scrubs hats come in a great choice of shades. A lot of medical professionals opt for solid colours like blue, pink and purple. This is a good option if you want your scrub hat to match the rest of your work uniform. If you want something a little different, why not choose a scrub hat with a pattern? A great pattern like flowers, cartoon characters or geometric shapes can brighten up your local hospital or paediatric ward and help you to stand out from the crowd. You can find a scrub hat pattern that suits you by looking through our eye-catching collection. Alternatively, you can customise your hat yourself using a printable pattern or an embroidered scrub cap pattern. If you’re feeling creative and are handy with a sewing machine, you could follow a step by step sewing tutorial or free sewing pattern to make a scrub hat that’s totally unique to you. Find a cap sewing pattern online or take a look at Etsy for a choice of pre-customised hats. Frequently Asked Questions What is The Difference Between a Scrub Hat and a Surgeon's Cap? A scrub hat and a surgeon’s cap are essentially the same thing. Both are designed to keep hair in place and out the wearer’s face. Scrubs hats that are specifically used for surgery may be kept in sterile packaging until they’re required, whereas those worn by non-surgical medical staff are commonly kept with other scrubs tops and bottoms. Can Any Nurse Wear a Scrub Cap? Generally, scrubs hats are worn by nurses who work in operating theatres as well as those who care for vulnerable or immuno-supressed patients. If you don’t work in one of these environments but still want to wear a nurse cap, talk to your manager or the person in charge of uniforms. How Should a Scrub Cap Fit Your Hair? The purpose of a scrub hat is to stop falling hair from contaminating the surrounding area and putting patients at risk. So, it’s important that your scrub hat fits snugly around the front and back of your head, while leaving plenty of room for your hair to fit comfortably inside. If you have a lot of hair, a bouffant or ponytail style scrub hat will probably suit you best. Scrub hats are an integral part of many scrubs uniforms. Learn more, and find the best scrub hat for your look, by exploring our collection today. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
September 18, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Which Nursing Speciality Should I Choose?
Nursing is an important, highly skilled career that requires a huge amount of dedication, hard work and commitment. A lot of people are drawn to nursing because they want to help others, work as part of a team and do a job that really makes a difference. What many entering the profession don’t realise is that there’s a large amount of variation within the world of nursing. From school nurses to paediatric nurses and ED nurses to home help, nurses take on a wide variety of roles and specialities. If you’re just starting out on your nursing journey, you may well be thinking about which nursing speciality is right for you. As this will have a huge impact on your future career, it’s important to get the choice just right. To help you whittle down the options and find your perfect role, we’re looking at some of the different speciality nursing jobs you have to choose from. What to Consider When Choosing a Nursing Speciality Deciding which avenue you want to follow isn’t always easy. Different specialities offer different working environments, challenges and even salaries. If you’re struggling to decide which type of speciality nursing to pursue, here are some of the most important things to consider before making your choice. Interests Start by thinking about which areas of medicine you’re most interested in. If you love working with children, you could choose to become a paediatric nurse. If you enjoy being in a fast-paced and a varied environment, you could become an emergency or critical care nurse. While, if you enjoy a slower pace and find satisfaction in getting to know your patients, you could go into speciality nursing home care. Training Although some specialities, like elderly care, are entry level positions, others require extra training and speciality nursing certifications. If you’re currently working as a nurse and want to transition to speciality practice nursing programs in order to advance your career, you’ll need to find out what training is available in your area. Speak to speciality nursing organizations to learn which courses are available near you and what nursing speciality certification you’ll need for your dream job. It’s important to remember that these extra speciality nursing courses can add a significant amount onto the time and cost of your professional training. This could mean it takes longer for you to start earning a salary and will probably add to your student debt. You’ll need to weigh this up when deciding if a speciality is the right choice for you. Location As the name suggests, specialty jobs are often only available in certain locations. For example, if you want to work as an emergency department nurse, you’ll need to be within commuting distance of a hospital that takes urgent cases. And if you want to work as an elderly care nurse, you’ll need to be within easy reach of a nursing home or supported living accommodation. If you’re not able to relocate for work, you may be limited to jobs available in your local area. Talk to nearby hospitals and medical centres to find out which specialities are on offer near you. Working Hours Because many patients need care around the clock, a lot of nurses are required to work shifts. While shifts suit some people, they’re not for everyone and can be difficult for people with young children and other commitments. If you’d rather work a 9 to 5, you might find a job in a clinic or doctor’s surgery is better suited to your lifestyle. Job Pace When choosing a speciality in nursing, it’s a good idea to think about the environment you want to spend your working life in. Different specialities, while often equally challenging, can be very differently paced. For example, if you’re a school nurse, you’ll probably be dealing with trips, falls and slips and should have a relatively low-key working day. While if you’re a critical care nurse, or if you work in an emergency department, your work is likely to be fast-paced, high-stress and unpredictable. If you’re the sort of person who thrives on adrenaline, a high-octane speciality could be the perfect choice. However, if you know you work better in a calmer, quieter environment, a more tranquil speciality could suit you better. Patient Engagement Although every nursing speciality is patient-focused, the amount you actually get to interact with the people you care for can vary significantly between jobs. Critical care nurses for example often work with people who are unconscious or hooked up to ventilators, while nurses working in an emergency department might only see their patients when they’re being treated for serious injuries. These patients are often then transferred to other parts of the hospital for further care. On the other hand, paediatric nurses and elderly care nurses often have the time to work closely with their patients and to build a relationship with the people they care for. If you like the idea of getting to know your patients, a job with higher levels of patient engagement could be the perfect speciality for you. Seven Popular Nursing Specialties in Australia Pediatric Nurse Pediatric nurses specialize in the care of children from infancy through adolescence. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and schools, providing medical care, administering vaccinations, and supporting families. This specialty requires excellent communication skills and a compassionate approach to help children and their families during difficult times. Nurse Practitioner (NP) Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide high-level medical care, often serving as primary care providers. NPs in Australia are trained to perform diagnostic tests, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications. This specialty is ideal for those looking to take on a more advanced role in patient care, with opportunities to specialize further in areas like family practice, women's health, or mental health. Mental Health Nurse Mental health nurses specialize in caring for patients with psychiatric disorders. They work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, providing support, therapy, and interventions to patients experiencing mental health challenges. This specialty requires strong interpersonal skills, patience, and a deep understanding of mental health conditions. Mental health nurses play a crucial role in developing treatment plans and offering long-term support to their patients. Oncology Nurse Oncology nurses care for patients undergoing cancer treatment. They provide support throughout the journey, from diagnosis to treatment and palliative care. Oncology nurses must be skilled in administering chemotherapy, managing side effects, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse ICU nurses specialize in caring for patients with life-threatening conditions, often in critical care units. They are responsible for monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and coordinating with healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. This specialty is fast-paced and requires a high level of technical skill, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Nurse Midwife Nurse midwives provide care to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They offer prenatal care, assist during labor and delivery, and provide postnatal support to mothers and newborns. Nurse midwives also focus on women's health, offering services like gynecological exams, family planning, and reproductive health education. This specialty requires a strong foundation in both nursing and obstetrics, with a focus on providing holistic and patient-centered care. Perioperative Nurse Perioperative nurses, also known as surgical nurses, work in operating rooms and assist with surgical procedures. They play a crucial role in preparing patients for surgery, assisting during the operation, and providing post-surgical care. This specialty requires advanced knowledge of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and the ability to respond quickly in critical situations. Perioperative nurses are integral to ensuring the safety and well-being of patients throughout the surgical process. Choosing Your Path in Nursing A nursing career can lead to a variety of fulfilling roles, each with its unique challenges and rewards. As you consider your future in nursing, think about where your passions lie, what type of training you are willing to undertake, and how each specialty aligns with your lifestyle and career goals. Nurses fulfill a diverse array of crucial roles in the medical and caregiving professions. As you train for a career in nursing, dedicating time and consideration to your future path will assist you in choosing the specialty that best suits your aspirations. This includes not only understanding the different nursing roles but also the importance of appropriate attire, such as nursing scrubs, which are essential for both comfort and professionalism in various healthcare settings. To discover more about your options and to explore our extensive range of nursing supplies, including high-quality scrubs, please browse our collection or contact a member of our team today. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
August 19, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Are Scrubs Tax Deductible? What You Need to Know
When filing taxes for the first time after starting a career in healthcare, many doctors, nurses, and other professionals wonder if the money they spent on scrubs is tax deductible. The short answer is yes, in most cases in Australia, you can deduct the cost of buying your scrubs from your taxable income! This is great news for healthcare workers who invest a lot of money into their work uniforms. Here, we’ll discuss the specific situations in which you can deduct your scrubs on your taxes, how to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, and how to go about deducing scrubs at tax time. We’ll also talk a bit about other items you may be able to deduct, and what things will have to be left off your tax return. Are Scrubs Tax Deductible? Yes! Australian tax laws allow certain tax deductions relating to work uniforms if they meet the government’s criteria. The ATO (Australian Taxation Office) sets out rules for what work-related expenses can be deducted, and we’ve broken that down here to help healthcare professionals understand how that relates to you. In general, occupation-specific clothing and protective equipment are tax deductible. While you may wear items of clothing other than scrubs at work, like socks or long-sleeved T-shirts under your scrub top, those items don’t qualify as clothing deductions because they can be worn anywhere. But since scrubs are distinctive uniforms for healthcare workers, they can be deducted at tax time. You can even deduct bills related to having your scrubs cleaned, such as dry cleaning expenses! Criteria for Deducting Scrubs At the end of each financial year, taxpayers around the country will review all of their income and expenses throughout the year as they prepare their tax returns. For some lucky professionals, work-related clothing expenses can be deducted from taxable income, reducing your income tax bill. However, the ATO has very specific criteria for what can be deducted, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with those rules before filing your taxes. The general rule is that compulsory work uniforms, including occupation-specific and protective clothing, can be deducted, but non-compulsory uniforms and conventional clothing cannot – even if that conventional clothing is worn at work. When determining if your work uniform qualifies as a tax deduction, these are the criteria that must be met: The clothing must identify you as a specific type of professional. Since scrubs identify medical professionals, they meet this criteria! If it is protective clothing, it must be designed specifically to provide protection and actually function as a protective item. Items like non-slip nursing shoes, steel-capped boots, and safety glasses qualify here. The clothing must be part of a compulsory work uniform. If your employer requires you to wear scrubs, those can be deducted. But other parts of your clothing that are not specifically required, like socks and underclothes, are not deductible in most cases. How to Claim Scrubs on Taxes In order to deduct expenses for your scrubs and other qualified clothing, you need to make sure to keep detailed records throughout the year of everything you spent. The ATO can require proof of what you spent on the deducted items, so be sure to keep receipts. Other Tax Deductible Uniform Expenses Medical professionals will be happy to know that in addition to deducting the costs of purchasing their scrubs, you can also deduct expenses related to having them professionally cleaned and cared for! This includes: Laundry expenses Dry cleaning Ironing Additionally, if any part of a non-compulsory uniform is encouraged by the employer and registered with the ATO’s Register of Approved Occupational Clothing, the cost of that item can be deducted as well. Your employer may register certain articles like lab coats with the company logo. You can also deduct certain other expenses, like certain overtime meals, your annual registration fees, and equipment like stethoscopes, so keep those receipts, too! What You Can't Deduct in Taxes There are a number of items that cannot be deducted, including (but not limited to): Socks, underwear, and underclothes (even if you only bought that white shirt to wear under your scrubs, it can’t be deducted) Clothing you bought to comply with your workplace’s dress code, even if it has the employer’s logo(unless it is on the Register of Approved Occupational Clothing) Non-compulsory work uniform items Laundry expenses that were reimbursed by your employer. Laundry claims are only valid if you paid for it and did not receive a reimbursement. Uniform items purchased by or reimbursed by your employer Conclusion As a medical professional, the work you do is difficult and often complicated. Thankfully, your taxes don’t have to be. Hopefully, our guide and tax tips will help you get the deductions you’re entitled to as you navigate the filing process. We always recommend reaching out to a professional tax agent if you have specific questions about your individual situation, tax refund, or income tax. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
June 15, 2022
Carolyn Cumper
Top Nursing Statistics for Australia
Nursing is undeniably one of the most important professions around. Nurses care for, treat and manage patients in all areas of medicine, helping to keep us healthy and ensure the health service can cope with demand. These nursing stats provide an insight into the current state of the profession in Australia. Many of these statistics show how the profession is evolving and could give an indication of what the future holds for nurses, healthcare professionals and those that use the Australian healthcare system. 1. Nurses are the Biggest Clinical Workforce in Australia Altogether, there are around 450,000 registered nurses and midwives in Australia. Of these, 337,000 are registered nurses, 72,000 are enrolled nurses, 28,800 have dual registration and 6,500 are midwives only. This makes nurses the largest clinical workforce in the country and shows just how important nurses are to the nation’s hospitals, clinics, health centres and general health services. 2. There are More Than 4 Times as Many Nurses as Doctors in Australia In 2020, there were 104,000 medical practitioners registered in Australia. That’s less than a quarter of the number of nurses working in the country. Of these 104,000 doctors, 31,000 were GPs, 36,000 were specialists, 80,000 worked in major cities and 20,000 worked in regional areas. Just 1,500 worked in remote or very remote corners of the country. 3. The Average Age for a Nurse in Australia is 43.6 According to the 2019 Nurses and Midwives Factsheet (the most recent nursing stats available from the Australian Government), the average age for practising nurses in the country is 43.6 years old. This shows that most nurses have a huge amount of experience under their belts, something that can greatly enhance the care they give their patients. 4. Almost 90% of Nurses are Female When you look at historic stats nursing has long been a profession dominated by women. And although more men are entering the profession, and demographics are slowly changing, the current stats in nursing show the vast majority of nurses are still women, with 88.7% of registered nurses and midwives in 2019 female. 5. Over a Third of Nurses and Midwives Come from Overseas Immigrants have contributed a huge amount to numerous Australian industries, and nursing is no different. According to government stats, 62.4% of nurses working in Australia were born in the country. That means an incredible 37.6% of registered nurses and midwives were born overseas. 6. Just 1.3% of Nurses Identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Just 1.3% of the nurses and midwives currently working in Australia identify as aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. However, 3.3% of the population identifies as belonging to these ethnic groups. This indicates that more needs to be done to encourage a broader spectrum of Australian society into the profession. 7. Over Two Thirds of Nurses Work in Metropolitan Areas The majority of people in Australia live in built up, urban areas. So, it’s no surprise that most nurses in the country work in these settings as well. According to government stats, just over two-thirds (72.6%) of nurses work in metropolitan areas, with the remainder working in towns, rural areas and remote settlements. 8. Nurses Work an Average of 33.5 Hours per Week The average nurse in Australia works 33.5 hours per week. This is slightly less than the 37.5 hours worked by the average Australian. 9. Most Nurses in Australia Work in Aged Care In 2019, 48,955 nurses worked in aged care. With the country’s population ageing rapidly, it’s likely that the demand for nurses in this area of care will grow over the coming years. 10. The Northern Territories Have the Most Nurses per Person The Northern Territories have the highest ratio of nurses to residents with 1,763.2 nurses per 100,000 people. New South Wales has the lowest ratio, with just 1,083.2 nurses per 100,000 residents. 11. Australia Needs More Nurses Nursing shortage stats reveal that 62% of Australian hospitals have a nursing vacancy rate higher than 7.5%. What’s more, research carried out on the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic shows that a significant one-fifth of Australia’s essential workers (including nurses) are considering quitting their jobs. This could mean an even bigger shortage of nurses in the near future. 12. Nurses and Midwives are 5 to 12 Times More Likely to Experience Violence in the Workplace Workplace violence in nursing stats continue to make uncomfortable reading. According to a Violence in Nursing and Midwifery study carried out in New South Wales, nurses are 5 to 12 times more likely to experience violence in the workplace compared to workers in other industries. The study included a survey of nurses and midwives working in the New South Wales area. Of the 1,454 participants, 80% had experienced violence within the previous six months. 13. Most Nurses Work in a Hospital The vast majority of nurses in Australia work in hospital settings. Of the 450,000 registered nurses in the country, 211,516 work in hospitals. The next largest group (numbering 44,179) works in residential healthcare, while the third most common role for nurses is in community healthcare services (25,136). 14. Most Nurses Qualified in Australia Around 80.5% of the nurses working in Australia today qualified in the country. The remaining 19.5% have transferred their qualifications from their home country so that they can live and work in Australia. 15. The Number of Nurses is Increasing According to the 2019 Nursing and Midwifery Factsheet, the number of nursing graduates is increasing at five times the rate of the population. The midwifery workforce is increasing at almost two times the rate of the population. If these newly qualified nurses and midwives can be retained in the profession, it should ensure a good standard of care for Australians everywhere. 16. Abuse in Aged Care is Still Common The majority of nurses working with the elderly provide an excellent standard of care. However, nursing home abuse stats show that abuse in aged care is still common with four in 10 aged care residents reporting that they’ve experienced some form of abuse or neglect. 17. Nurses Specialising in Aboriginal Health Work the Longest Hours While the average nurse works 33.5 hours per week, those specialising in aboriginal health services worked considerably more, with most putting in 38 hours every week. 18. Small Rural Towns Need More Nurses In most areas of Australia, there are around 1,300 nurses for every 100,000 residents. However, small rural towns have significantly fewer nurses with just 643.3 per 1000,000 people. This is in especially sharp contrast to large rural towns which, with 1,524.6 nurses per 100,000, have the highest ratio of any setting. 19. Nurses Were Almost 3 Times More Likely to get Covid-19 Nursing health stats reveal that nurses were around 3 times more likely to get Covid-19 than the average Australian. This put nurses at a higher risk of developing serious illness during the pandemic. 20. Less than 1% of Nurses Work in Very Remote Communities Just 0.7% of nurses work in very remote communities, while 1.1% work in remote communities. Many of these are aboriginal settlements located well away from Australia’s cities and urban areas. How Stats Help Nursing? Nursing stats offer a fascinating snapshot of life in the nursing profession. This information can be used to help drive recruitment, improve patient care and make the job even more rewarding. If you’re considering a career in nursing, we offer a fantastic range of products that are designed specifically for nurses or nursing scrubs from popular brands. Explore our collection, or get in touch with a member of our team, to find out more. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
January 26, 2023
Carolyn Cumper
6 Best Stethoscopes for Nurses
Stethoscopes are used by nurses in pretty much all areas of medicine. From carrying out general checks to more specialist examinations, stethoscopes are relied on by healthcare professionals everywhere. Virtually all nursing students will learn how to use a stethoscope to check blood pressure, monitor heart sounds and listen for lung sounds. Carrying out these assessments allows nurses to keep an eye on their patients’ progress and make a range of diagnoses. Whether you’re currently in nursing school, or have already embarked on your medical career, finding the right stethoscope for your needs will help you properly assess your patients and give you a tool you can rely on. To help you narrow down the options and select the perfect product for you, we’re taking a look at the best stethoscopes for nurses currently on the market. 1. The Best General Purpose Stethoscope for Nurses The 3M Littmann Classic III is a fantastic general-purpose stethoscope. The latest version in 3M Littmann’s signature stethoscope range, the Classic III is arguably the best stethoscope for nurses. The Littmann stethoscope offers high-definition sensitivity for all over physical exams, a tunable diaphragm on both adult and paediatric sides of the chest piece, next-generation tubing and soft-sealing ear tips. The tunable diaphragm allows you to switch between low and high-frequency sounds simply by changing the amount of pressure you place on the chest piece. This makes the high-quality stethoscope perfect for general auscultation as well as specialist examinations. The soft-sealing ear tips ensure the stethoscope fits comfortably in your ear canal. They also help to cut out ambient noise to improve sound quality. The next-generation tubing will help your stethoscope last for even longer. One of the most popular types of stethoscopes on the market, the Littmann Classic III is a great choice for nurses working in all areas of medicine. 2. The Best Specialist Stethoscope for Nurses The 3M Littmann Cardiology IV stethoscope is the perfect choice for nurses who want a precise, finely tuned medical instrument. Like the Littmann Classic III, the Cardiology IV Stethoscope has a tunable diaphragm, an adjustable headset and outstanding acoustic performance. It also comes with dual-lumen tubing which combines two sound paths in one tube. This eliminates the rubbing noise created by dual tubes and allows the clinician to hear with even greater clarity. The Littmann stethoscope is also exceptionally versatile. Its innovative design lets the user switch between high and low-frequency sounds simply by adjusting the pressure on the chest piece. This advanced feature allows nurses to carry out a range of physical assessments quickly and efficiently. Littmann also manufactures the Littmann Master Cardiology Stethoscope. The device comes with a higher price tag than the Cardiology IV, but it does offer more features, ergonomic design and unbeatable acoustics. Another good specialist stethoscope option for nurses is the Spirit Deluxe Cardiology Stethoscope. The high quality device has a stainless steel adult and paediatric dual head chest piece, excellent acoustic sensitivity and latex-free tubing. More affordable than both the Littmann Master Cardiology and Cardiology IV stethoscopes, it’s a great choice for medical professionals looking for a good value option. 3. The Best Paediatric Stethoscope for Nurses If you want a specialist paediatric nursing stethoscope, the 3M Littmann Classic II Paediatric Stethoscope is the perfect choice. The device has a non-chill rim and diaphragm for patient comfort, soft-sealing earpieces and a chest piece that’s specifically designed for paediatric patients. Nurses who work with infants and young patients can also opt for the Spirit Deluxe Paediatric Stethoscope. The specialist instrument has a floating diaphragm, ultra acoustic sensitivity and a solid chest piece with medical grade stainless steel brushed finish. Latex-free, it offers excellent amplification, a choice of colours and a manufacturer’s warranty. 4. The Best Lightweight Stethoscope for Nurses Nurses are often required to be on their feet all day, every day. So, having a large, heavy duty dual head stethoscope around your neck or in the pocket of your scrubs isn’t always realistic. If you want all the accuracy and performance of a high quality medical instrument, but without the back ache, why not invest in a lightweight stethoscope? Both Welch Allyn, and Prestige manufacture lightweight stethoscopes that are accurate, easy to use and reliable. Perfect for students, EMTs and nurses on the go, they allow you to examine adult patients quickly, efficiently and with confidence. 5. The Best High-Tech Stethoscope for Nurses If you want a high-tech stethoscope with all the bells and whistles you can think of, invest in the 3M Littmann CORE Digital Stethoscope. Part of the new generation of electronic stethoscopes, the CORE Digital Stethoscope boasts a whole host of features. These include advanced noise cancellation to eliminate all background noise, up to 40 times amplification and a tunable diaphragm. The device connects to Eko software to visualise and share heart sound waveforms and is designed for use with adult and paediatric patients. Thanks to its extensive list of extras and exceptional build quality, the CORE Digital Stethoscope is ideal for use by nurses working in specialist environments like the ICU. 6. The Best Low Cost Stethoscope for Nurses Low cost scopes can offer excellent functionality as well as great value for money. One of the most affordable and reliable models on the market is the Spirit Classic Stethoscope CK-S601PF. The stethoscope has a floating diaphragm, ultra acoustic sensitivity and a solid chest piece. Other affordable options include the Prestige Sprague Rappaport Stethoscope, the Spirit Advanced Single Head Stethoscope and the Prestige Ultra Sensitive Dual Head Stethoscope. You can guarantee great value from your investment by selecting a product with a lifetime warranty. A good quality stethoscope is a must for hard working nurses everywhere. Find out more, and learn about the other products in our collection by taking a look around or getting in touch with a member of our team. FAQs Which Littmann is Best for Nurses? 3M Littmann is arguably the world’s best known stethoscope manufacturer. The brand offers a wide choice of stethoscopes to suit every speciality. These range from the Littmann Lightweight II to the CORE Digital and Master Cardiology acoustic stethoscope. The company also makes a selection of accessories and replacement parts to help keep your stethoscope going for even longer. If you’re looking for a high quality, all-purpose stethoscope that will stand the test of time, the Littmann Classic III is the perfect choice. Affordable, reliable and built to last, it will help you examine your patients quickly and accurately. Can a Nurse Use a Cardiology Stethoscope? Cardiology stethoscopes are designed to be highly sensitive and user-friendly. Often more expensive than other types of stethoscope, they’re perfect for nurses who want an instrument that’s exceptionally accurate and long lasting. What Is the Best Stethoscope for Nurses? The best stethoscope for your needs will depend on your budget and your specialty. Take a look through our collection to find the right product for you.
March 07, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
The Ultimate Guide to Scrub Fabrics
Medical scrubs are a vital piece of workwear for healthcare professionals, and are often worn for extended periods of time. Understandably, you’re likely to want scrubs which are comfortable, durable and breathable. Yet on top of these factors, there are several different qualities which you might need to consider before buying scrubs for yourself or your staff. These qualities are often determined by the fabric from which your scrubs are made, as well as the way in which the fibres are woven together. The choice of fibre and weave can impact how your scrubs look and feel, as well as the care they require. Given the hours that the wearer can spend working professionally, as well as in front of your washing machine, it’s a good idea to know what you’re in for before you commit to new scrubs tops and pants. Here, in the ultimate guide to scrub fabrics, we’ll explain the different types of fibres commonly used to make high-quality scrub fabrics, as well as some of the common methods used for weaving them together. Fibres and Fabrics Cotton Cotton is a staple fabric in the world of scrubs, offering numerous benefits to healthcare professionals. Known for its comfort and breathability, cotton is a popular choice for scrubs due to its ability to keep the wearer cool and comfortable during long shifts . Additionally, cotton is highly absorbent, making it ideal for wicking away moisture and keeping the skin dry. Its soft and gentle texture is gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. Furthermore, cotton scrubs are also easy to wash, as the material responds well to a range of cleaning methods. It can be washed on cool for lighter soiling, but it’s also resilient in warm water if you’ve picked up some stains. It’s best to dry cotton slowly, however, so line-drying is best to avoid shrinkage. We recommend cotton as a versatile and practical fabric choice for scrub wearers seeking comfort, durability, and ease of maintenance. You could also consider in colder conditions, scrub tops made from cotton fabric, paired with an undershirt such as the Cherokee Undershirt Black Tee, it can be used to guarantee you comfort throughout your shift. Polyester Polyester is a hugely versatile material, which is used to produce a range of goods including Liquid Crystal Displays, single-use water bottles, and of course, textiles. Polyester is a popular choice for scrubs, as it has several major benefits. It’s incredibly flexible, wrinkle-resistant and quick-drying, which helps healthcare workers to maintain a professional appearance on shift without needing to take on extra ironing duty when they get home. It’s also quick-drying, which can help to mitigate the mess of a busy shift. Polyester can also be included in blended fabrics to offer these benefits, such as in the Cherokee Workwear V-neck scrub top or if you prefer as a jacket, the Cherokee workwear warm up navy jacket. Because polyester is a synthetic material, polyester fabric does lack some of the natural benefits of cotton. For example, it can build up static electricity, and is more likely to allow sweat to build up than naturally-wicking cotton. It also has a slightly rough texture, and unless you’re careful during washing, it’s more likely to bleed colours than cotton, and can suffer from pilling. Many of these issues can be avoided with proper polyester care, however. Turning polyester clothing inside out can reduce pilling and protect the colour, whilst using a cool cycle combined with fabric softener can reduce the build up of static. We recommend polyester for scrub wearers seeking durability, moisture-wicking properties, and resistance to wrinkles and fading. Spandex Often associated with the popular brand-name Lycra, Spandex is a popular synthetic fabric used to produce a wide range of high-performance garments such as cycling shorts, gym wear, leotards and, of course, medical scrubs. Its popularity comes as a result of its impressive lightweight elasticity, which makes it an ideal material for clothing which needs to move quickly and comfortably with an active body. It’s also abrasion resistant, soft on the skin, doesn’t build up static electricity, and retains its shape throughout plenty of use and washes. Also, though it’s not a true wicking fabric, it’s usually sufficiently lightweight to make it breathable. Spandex can also be included in blended fabrics to offer stretch, as is found in the Cherokee Core Stretch Scrub Pants. For medical professionals looking for scrubs that prioritize both flexibility and resilience, spandex blends are undoubtedly a top recommendation. In order to keep your spandex clothing in good condition, it’s important to take proper care of your spandex whilst you’re washing it. Spandex benefits from a cool wash, so for especially soiled scrubs, it’s sensible to pre-soak them in detergent the night before. They can then be run on a gentle cool cycle, and dried on the coolest cycle possible, or ideally in the air. Rayon Rayon is amongst the most versatile of fabrics, as it can be altered to mimic the look and texture of a range of other materials, including silk, cotton and wool. It’s created by using industrial chemicals to purify cellulose fibres taken from organic materials such as wood pulp, and is therefore considered semi-synthetic; a term which expresses the amorphousness of the fabric, and its ability to be transformed to suit varied needs. Due to its ability to mimic other materials, it can be used to create flattering and comfortable scrubs and scrub accessories. One significant drawback is its tendency to shrink and lose shape when exposed to moisture or heat, making it less durable compared to other fabrics like polyester or cotton. Additionally, rayon is prone to wrinkling, requiring careful handling during laundering and ironing to maintain its appearance, making it ideal for items of clothing which you might rotate through your closet. . For example, you might own several Cherokee Infinity Underscrubs Long Tees, and wear each once a week. We recommend rayon for scrub wearers seeking luxurious comfort, excellent moisture absorption, and a soft, smooth texture against the skin. To get the best out of your rayon scrubs, it’s important to wash them according to the proper guidance. This can vary between items of clothing, depending on how the rayon has been adapted for the garment. In general terms, however, it’s a good idea to pre-soak heavily soiled rayon, wash it by hand, and then air-dry the garment. Blends Each of these fibres come with their own distinct strengths and advantages. However, they often demonstrate their greatest strengths when combined to create fabric blends. It’s these blends which are most common for making scrubs. Poly/cotton blend Poly/cotton blends offer the best of both worlds; absorbent and soft like cotton, yet flexible, durable and able to retain shape like polyester. This blend is found in items such as the Cherokee Workwear Unisex Scrub Top, which is made from 65% polyester, and 35% cotton poplin. Fully Synthetic Blends These items are ideal for maintaining professionalism, as they are virtually wrinkle-free. Polyester, spandex and rayon are able to work together to create flexible, durable and abrasion resistant scrubs, such as the Cherokee trousers which have a 78% poly, 20% rayon and 2% spandex blend. In the case of both blended fabric types, it's worth bearing in mind that the properties and required care will vary depending on the exact blend found in each garment. For example, a synthetic blend with a large percentage of rayon may be more prone to wrinkles, but also softer than a poly/spandex blend. In each case, you should turn to the item’s label for specific care instructions. Weaves During medical training, you have to learn about the different parts of the body. However, nobody would consider your training complete if you didn’t also know how those parts work together to create a healthy whole. The same is true with scrub materials, as knowledge of the different fibres alone is not enough to understand how your garment will look and feel. You must also know about their weave, or the way in which the fibres are combined with one another to produce fabric, in order to really get a sense of the full picture. Plain As the name suggests, is the simplest and most common type of weave, where the warp and weft threads interlace alternately in a simple over-under pattern. Plain weave fabrics have a balanced structure and are known for their durability and versatility. One such plain weave is Poplin which is characterised by its subtle horizontal lines, which can produce a cording effect on close inspection. It’s widely used for shirts, skirts and raincoats, though it is also a popular choice for scrubs due to its natural resistance to wrinkles and stains, as well as its breathability. Poplin is often produced from cotton or poly/cotton blends. Twill is another of the most common types of weave. Due to twill’s ability to resist stains, combined with its durability, twill is often used for the production of scrubs and other workwear. It’s recognizable by its diagonal lines, which are created by offsetting the warp threads, and which are responsible for the hardiness of this weave. Twill is most commonly made using cotton, polyester, or blends of these two fibres. Dobby Dobby is a rather special weave, which relies on the use of a special “dobby” attachment to the loom itself. The use of this attachment creates textured patterns which are physically integrated into the fabric. This not only creates a visual and physical texture which is more complex than plain cloth, but it can also help to increase the fabric’s resistance to creases, whilst improving its durability. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that whilst dobby makes a great material for scrubs, you should be cautious about combining dobby with socks. Extras There’s also one more element which can affect your scrubs. These are the added extras. Keep your eyes peeled for scrubs with anti-microbial or water-resistant coatings. If you feel ready to get started, we have a wide range of scrubs available at Medshop. Equally, if you need a bit more help, we have plenty of guidance to help you choose your medical workwear. Articles suggesting the best moisture wicking scrubs, what to wear underneath your scrubs, the best stethoscopes and more are all available on the Medshop Blog. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
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