I remember being super excited to shadow a doctor as a pre-med student for the first time. But as I imagined showing up on the first day, a million thoughts flooded my mind, like what do I wear? How do I look like I belong there?
I wanted to make a good impression on the doctor and the patients and not look out of place like some random observer who happened to walk into the room. Scrubs seemed like the obvious choice at first, but then I realized they might not give off the professional vibe I was going for.
Turns out, all my worrying was totally unnecessary! Looking back, what I wore turned out to be just fine. And now, I’m here to help you avoid all that unnecessary stress. I’m sharing what I learned from my own experience, plus some tips if you’re shadowing a surgeon in the OR. This post will help you know exactly what to wear when shadowing a doctor!
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What To Wear When Shadowing A Doctor
When in Doubt: Wear Business Casual When Shadowing a Doctor
So, what exactly does “business casual” mean? Picture your typical office attire. Avoid anything too casual, revealing, or distracting – now is not the time to bust out your favorite ripped jeans or that super tight mini dress you love!
Instead, when shadowing a doctor, opt for a polished and conservative look. You want to fit right in while also showing respect. Believe me when I say that this can go a long, long way.
Also, do some detective work on the dress code of the healthcare facility you’ll be shadowing. Each hospital or clinic can have its unique style, so it’s good to get a feel for what’s considered acceptable attire.
Leave Your Jeans, Sweatpants, and Athleisure Wear at Home
Can you rock these super-cute yet comfy styles while shadowing? Well, unfortunately, the answer is a colossal no. Believe me, I get it – these options are cozy, trendy, and basically my go-to for everyday life. However, even if you stumble upon a super casual clinic and get a laid-back vibe from the doctor, it’s best to steer clear and play it safe with something a little more professional.
Recommendations for Female Attire
For us ladies, there are a few clothing standards for doctors that you should keep in mind. It’s best to wear neutral colors for a polished, professional look.
- Pair sleeved tops or blouses and tailored pants
- Select dresses or skirt suits in a conservative style (Double-check that its length is appropriate!)
- Choose comfortable footwear. Go with closed-toe shoes with a low heel or flats
- Limit accessories, makeup, and fragrances – less is more!
Pro tips:
- If you’re wearing a low-cut top, add a camisole underneath to keep everything classy and modest.
- Avoid jangling jewelry and strong smells, which can be distracting in a medical environment.
- Keep your makeup natural and light.
If you need some ideas, I shared some of my favorite affordable business casual outfits I found on Amazon, Ann Taylor, Abercrombie, or M.M. LaFleur in another post that you can check out here!
Recommendations for Male Attire
Guys, you want to keep it simple and sharp. Stick to traditional solid colors like navy blue, black, or gray. And present a well-groomed appearance. Clean-shaven is a safe bet, but If you have a beard, keep it trimmed.
Here’s a detailed list of recommendations.
- Select dress pants and a button-down shirt – you can’t go wrong with this classic combo!
- Consider adding a tie depending on the setting’s formality
- Go with a button shirt, tie, and a sweater if you want to add layering
- Optional – swap out the dress pants for chinos for a stylish and comfortable alternative
- Wear a belt to bring your entire look together
- Opt for dress shoes that match the overall look
- Pair your dress shoes with dark socks
Avoid these fashion choices at all costs.
- Flashy, bold prints
- Flip-flops
- Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or workout attire
- Shaggy beards
- Long hair that isn’t secured out of your face
Choose Comfort! (you’ll thank me)
We all know that a doctor’s day can get pretty hectic with long hours, rushing through hospital corridors, and maneuvering around patients and equipment. So, make sure you choose shoes and clothing for your shadowing experiences with comfort in mind.
Comfortable Shoes are a Must!
You’ll be on your feet for long hours and might even find yourself dashing around to keep up with the action, so ditch those torturous heels or tight shoes. Opt for flats with supportive soles, cushioning, and breathable materials that will keep you comfy throughout the day.
You Won’t Regret Putting on Clothing that Allows for Movement
Also, focus your clothing choices on practicality when shadowing. Choose clothes that allow you the freedom to move without restrictions, like stretchy or loose-fitting tops and bottoms. Avoid anything too tight or structured, as it can get in the way of your ability to do tasks and cause distraction due to discomfort.
The Secret to Staying Cool Under Pressure? Dress in Layers
Hospitals can have unpredictable temperatures, so be prepared for both chilly air conditioning and bustling warm rooms. Wearing layers allows you to adjust your outfit to the temps around you.
For inner layers, opt for lightweight and breathable materials that will keep you cool and comfortable during those hectic hours. If you tend to get chilly (like I do), bring along a lightweight sweater or cardigan that you can easily put on or take off.
What To Wear When Shadowing a Surgeon in the OR
You’ve scored an amazing opportunity to shadow a surgeon in the operating room – how cool is that? Before you show up to observe surgery, let’s talk about what to wear for this unique experience.
When you arrive at the hospital, go for a stylish business casual look, as I described above. You want to make a good impression, after all.
However, you won’t stay in your business casual outfit. You’ll need to change into scrubs. Don’t worry, though, the hospital will provide you with a locker room and its own particular set of scrubs for you to wear. Just make sure they’re the right size and fit comfortably.
Tips for a Professional Appearance
As you shadow a surgeon, the goal is to blend in seamlessly and demonstrate professionalism. Follow these tips and pay attention to the details to make a great impression and have a rewarding shadowing experience in the OR.
- Wear sterile scrubs, a cap, and disposable shoe covers to ensure a hygienic environment and minimize the risk of introducing bacteria.
- Remove all jewelry or keep it to a minimum. Bulky accessories can not only be distracting but may also pose a safety hazard.
- Maintain a clean and well-groomed appearance.
- Avoid using strongly scented products or overwhelming perfumes
- Keep your hair neat and out of your face. Consider a bouffant hat, which adds an extra layer of protection.
Consider the Dress Code of the Medical Facility and the Doctor’s Specialty
Different types of medical settings may have different expectations when it comes to attire. It’s always a good idea to do a little research beforehand and see if you can find any specific guidelines for the specialty you’re interested in.
For example, a hospital might have a more formal dress code requiring business casual attire, while a clinic may be a bit more relaxed, allowing you to wear comfortable yet professional clothing. However, the ER, where everything is fast-paced and adrenaline-pumped, is an exception to the usual business casual rule. Typically, everyone, including students who come to shadow, wears scrubs.
Lastly, different specialties may have different clothing expectations. So, take a moment to consider the dress code of the medical facility and the preferences of the doctor you’ll be shadowing. For example, I’m in pediatrics, which requires more bending, so I opt for pants made of stretchy material.
Top Five Takeaways: What to Wear When Shadowing a Doctor
We’ve explored just about every angle of what to wear when you head out to shadow a doctor. Here are a few of the most important points worth saying again.
- Wearing business casual attire makes a positive impression and showcases your professionalism
- Opt for comfortable shoes since you’ll be on your feet all day
- Make clothing choices that allow for easy movement
- Layering helps you be prepared for all temperature fluctuations
- Finally, err on the side of caution and dress a bit more formally than you think may be necessary. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed!
Hopefully, I’ve helped you dress the part so you can keep your focus on learning and gaining valuable experience rather than worrying about your outfit and appearance.
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