Are you familiar with the humble nurse’s cap? The nurse caps have been a strong symbol of the profession for centuries. But why is it so important? What was the original purpose of the nurse’s cap? Let’s dive into the mystery.
The Museum of Nursing History at LaSalle University in Philadelphia is a great place to start learning about the history of nurses’ headwear. It’s a great way to learn about the history of the nursing cap. The Mutter Museum of Philadelphia was the first to collect the material that would become the museum and collection. The nursing museum is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting memorabilia from the long history of nursing, as well as educating the public.
History and Contents of the Nurse’s Cap
As of 2008, there were 70 nursing caps in the Nursing Museum Philadelphia. The collection has grown over the years. The collection includes exhibits that span decades of nursing styles. The Museum documents the origins of the original nurse cap, which dates back to early Christian times. It was used by nuns and deaconesses who were responsible for caring for sick patients.
The Nurses’ Cap: Identifying a Role and Achievement
The Bellevue Nurses Training School, NY, created a nursing cap in 1875 for those who had just graduated. This early model was reminiscent of a modern ski cap. It was made from white linen and had fringe at the bottom. White is the only color that could represent the honesty, dedication, and faith that were part of early nursing.
Practicality wins over symbolism in nursing Uniforms and Caps
Some believe that the original purpose of the nursing cap, which was meant to protect patients’ hair from being contaminated by nurses’ hair, was to keep their hair clean. However, it was later identified as a carrier for bacteria. Nursing caps “came into style” in the early 1900s, as another symbol of the nurse. (Slide 4). The quaint nurse cap was lost in the 1980s as scrubs were popularized. Nursing professionals have become more efficient in displaying their bodies.
Still Available Nursing Caps
The nurse’s cap, scarf, or headgear, which is still in use in many countries in the developing world, can be found in various styles. Nursing caps still have a symbolic meaning and many nurses from the US, UK, and other countries in the first world take photos of themselves wearing them as part of their nursing graduation photos. Some men might even make the gesture a tongue-in-cheek gesture. Medscape also has a slide show that shows nurse cap graduation at the end of their careers. Today, nursing caps can still be purchased online.
