BACKGROUND: Uniforms are thought to hold personal significance for those who wear them and act as powerful symbols representing the profession's identity and image. AIM: To gain an insight into the influence of uniform on self image and professional identity among student nurses. METHOD: Fourteen qualitative, semi structured interviews were carried out with pre registration nurses on diploma and degree programmes at a university in England. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Uniform raised issues in a number of areas including gender, equality, power and identity. Pride, combined with a strong self image and professional identity, lead to enhanced confidence and, therefore, better performance in clinical practice. CONCLUSION: Since this study shows the importance of uniform to students, uniforms need to balance a professional and modern image while retaining an appreciation for nursing's heritage. This will project a realistic image to the public and help nurses to form a positive professional identity.
BACKGROUND: Uniforms are thought to hold personal significance for those who wear them and act as powerful symbols representing the profession's identity and image. AIM: To gain an insight into the influence of uniform on self image and professional identity among student nurses. METHOD: Fourteen qualitative, semi structured interviews were carried out with pre registration nurses on diploma and degree programmes at a university in England. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Uniform raised issues in a number of areas including gender, equality, power and identity. Pride, combined with a strong self image and professional identity, lead to enhanced confidence and, therefore, better performance in clinical practice. CONCLUSION: Since this study shows the importance of uniform to students, uniforms need to balance a professional and modern image while retaining an appreciation for nursing's heritage. This will project a realistic image to the public and help nurses to form a positive professional identity.