60–90 second summary
The real issue:
Many practices underestimate clothing. Yet, it’s one of the fastest ways patients judge professionalism.
Common mistakes:
- Dirty, stained, wrinkled or torn uniforms
- Visible underwear
- Strong perfume or cigarette smell
- Excessive makeup
- Exposed skin during clinical work
- Pants that are too short
- Visible piercings or tattoos
What it conveys:
Lack of control and low perceived quality.
The root problem:
No clear, written dress code.
What to do:
- Define clear rules
- Require clean, well-maintained uniforms
- Align the entire team
Conclusion:
Clothing is not aesthetic—it’s perception. And perception builds trust.