New to clinicals and not sure whether to buy scrubs, a lab coat or both? Here is the short answer.
Most healthcare students and workers in Kenya need both. Scrubs are what you work in. A lab coat goes on top for labs, clinics and ward rounds. At Scrubs Kenya scrubs start from KES 2,200 and a white coat is KES 1,900.
What scrubs are for
Scrubs are a top and trousers you wear for the whole shift. They are easy to wash, comfortable to move in and come in colours your hospital may set by role.
What a lab coat is for
A lab coat is a long white coat worn over your clothes or scrubs. It protects you in the lab and gives a clean, professional look in clinics.
Who needs what?
ā¢ Nursing students: scrubs or the set uniform, plus a coat for labs ā¢ Medical and clinical medicine students: scrubs for the wards, a coat for labs and clinics ā¢ Lab technologists: a lab coat at all times in the lab ā¢ Theatre staff: scrubs only, with a cap ā¢ Pharmacists: often a coat over smart clothes
Always check your college or hospital list first.
The starter kit
Two scrub sets and one coat covers most people. With Nurse Sets at KES 3,000 each and a coat at KES 1,900 that comes to KES 7,900.
Questions people ask
Can I wear a lab coat over scrubs?
Yes. Many doctors and clinical officers do this in clinics.
Do I need a lab coat in theatre?
No. Theatre staff wear scrubs, a cap and a gown given by the hospital.
How much is a lab coat in Kenya?
At Scrubs Kenya a white coat is KES 1,900.
