There was a time when medical lab coats where only available in one style. Now, there are so many different ones, you have almost as many choices in shopping for a lab coat as you do for other clothing. You can choose between variations in color, material, length and style of cut.
Personal preference is obviously one consideration when choosing a lab coat, but you will also want to consider your job. There are two main functions which medical lab coats perform. One is practical, that of protecting your clothing. The other is more figurative. They are a type of uniform for medical professionals that instantly makes the patient listen attentively and give respect to the person wearing it.
One thing you need to think about, then, when choosing the length of your lab coat, is how much protection your clothing is likely to need. If you are taking and/or handling a number of specimens, for example, you may want a longer style coat. If you are working in a lab, for example, this will probably be the wisest choice. On the other hand, if you are working around a lot of equipment, a shorter type may be safer as it will be less likely to get in the way. Someone who performs primarily consultations will have more freedom to choose according to personal preference.
There are several possibilities for the styling of your coat, and these can range from the boxy style that is traditional to very sharp looking models that resemble suit jackets. Another design consideration is the number and size of the pockets in the coat. This may also depend on your job in terms of what you need to carry in the pockets, such as reference guides or medical instruments.
There are some different options in materials, usually cotton or a cotton and polyester blend. Cotton is often more comfortable and breathes a bit better. But the blend stands up to more regular use and washing. These coats stay neater looking and are easier to clean as well.
There are also wide variety of colors in lab coats available on the market. If you are a surgeon, chances are you will opt for the standard white variety. If you are not required to wear white, a color can be a nice change of pace. It can also help to set people at ease. There is a syndrome literally referred to as white coat fever, where people have fear reactions such as a spike in blood pressure when going to the doctor.
Whatever your specific needs, depending on your particular job and the part of the medical industry in which you work, there is a lab coat that is perfect for you. If you like, you can even have it embroidered with your name, adding a nice personal touch.
For free tips and information on colored lab coat visit Lab Coat Blog.
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