When patients wear backless gowns, they take on the “sick role” and become dependent’: Exploring the perspectives of healthcare professionals

Abstract

The tenets of dignity, safety and privacy are potentially challenged when patients are required to remove their own clothes and wear the hospital gown for medical procedures. The current study aimed to explore healthcare workers’ views (n = 3371) on the utility of the hospital gown and its perceived impact on patient wellbeing using a cross-sectional online survey with closed and open-ended questions. Findings suggested that the gown was often used when it was not medically necessary and that it was perceived to negatively impact on patient wellbeing (leaving patients feeling uncomfortable, vulnerable, cold, exposed and self-conscious). The majority of healthcare workers suggested alternatives and/or modifications to the hospital gown in order for it to be more patient centred. Barriers and practical challenges in promoting patients wearing their own clothing were identified with recommendations for improving choice, quality, safety and dignity in patent clothing across diverse healthcare settings.