Why Does Meredith Grey Wear a Purple Scrub Cap
Meredith Grey is a beloved main character of the iconic TV show, Grey’s Anatomy. As a surgical resident at Seattle Grace Hospital, Meredith wears a shampoo cap every day. On closer inspection, it is always a purple cap that she wears. Given the wide array of colors available for her to choose from, why does Meredith Grey always wear a purple scrub cap?
Upon looking at the job description of a surgical resident, one must conclude that a constant primary goal is to promote sterility on the operating table. This is why Meredith and other healthcare staff members cover up their hair entirely with a scruber cap. In doing so, it prevents any foreign particles from landing on the wound and causing an infection which can potentially be deadly.
But why the color purple specifically? Although the answer may not be definitive, there is a strong case for why Meredith chooses purple for her cap of choice. According to recent psychological research, purple is typically a color of nobility, wisdom, and sophistication. Not only is this an apt descripton for Meredith Grey, but the hue also stands out in a medical setting. Embracing the color is a small way to exude confidence, break the mold and show that she is comfortable and proud of who she is and her role in surgery during every performance.
In further support of the color choice, the hue Purple is the international color for Surgical Safety. It was selected to represent the standards and values of saftey in the operating room in many healthcare fields of work. By wearing the color of purple, MeredithGrey is showing her colleagues that she is aware of the standards and that she is taking them seriously. In fact, some countries even encourage the use of the color for promotions of a sterile environment for all involved.
Ultimately, Meredith’s choice of purple for her scrubcap is a long standing testament to her upstanding character. It is a subtle indication that she is both noble, wise and aware of the importance of safety surrounding her. The hue is her way of embracing herself and her role in the world of healthcare.
Why is Maintaining a Sterile Environment so Important for Surgery?
Maintaining a sterile environment is paramount in surgery. While it may seem obvious on the surface, the importance of a sterile environment runs much deeper. It helps to minimize the chances of infection during surgery and post-operatively. When a surgical procedure occurs, foreign particles naturally enter the body, opening up pathways for micro-organisms and other invaders in the bloodstream.
This puts the patient at risk of infection and an insurgence of bacteria coming into contact with the sterile area. When a sterile environment is maintained throughout a procedure, the chances of infection dramatically decrease. A sterile environment is created in the operating room before surgery begins and is maintained thru the entirety of the surgery process.
Therefore, it is so essential that medical personnel take all steps possible to ensure a sterile operating area is in place during any surgical procedure. This ranges from the proper gowns and gloves to facial masks and headgear. It is these items that ultimately keep microscopic germs, bacteria, particles and more from infiltrating the sterile area and ultimately the body itself.
The Various Colors of Scrub Caps and their Representation
Scrub caps have become prevalent in medical facilities and for good reason. Not only do they help protect the patient and staff from dangerous germs, it helps to maintain a uniform look. There are numerous colors to choose from, however hospitals and other medical facilities generally opt for a light blue cap across the board. This helps to link the staff and reinforce the team-like effort that operating room [OR] staff has to cultivate.
But certain exceptions will occur like Meredith Grey’s choice of purple cap. This deliberate differentiation can be linked to the individual’s motivation of making a statement and asserting authority in a professional setting. While the person may not be in a position of ultimate power, the color choice is subtle and tasteful way to emerge from the mass of blue uniformity.
In Meredith’s case, the hue of purple resonates with her and her personal journey. As such, wearing the cap in the color is her way of asserting her commitment to the task. The importance of safety to her, along with a no-nonsense attitude are qualities that are often associated with the hue and thus her chosen head cover.
The Advantages of Using a Scrub Cap to Protect Hair
Scrub caps have become an integral part of the medical uniform for the protection of a patient as well as the caregiver. There are various benefits that come with the use of a scrub cap in the medical field. As previously mentioned, the primary benefit is the fact the cap helps maintain a sterile environment during the surgery.
In addition to its sterile capabilities, scrub caps also help keep the hair of medical personnel contained and neat. They cover the head, ears, and most of their hair in order to keep them from getting in the way of an operation. Long and loose hair can be a hazard and can potentially Touch the patient and the surgical instruments. Therefore, wearing a scrubs cap can help alleviate these risks and keep medical professionals on their toes
There’s also another unexpected benefit to using a scrub cap. According to a recent study from the Vein Clinic of America, scrub capps can protect medical personnel from accidental needle pokes. In the medical field, accidental needle pokes are a common occurrence; with the use of a scrupp cap, the chances of this happening can be cut down.
The Different Types of Scrub Caps
Scrub caps have come a long way over the years. From simple, single colored caps to vibrant, patterned ones, there’s a range of options for medical personnel to choose from. It is important for scrubs caps to be as comfortable as possible for medical personnel as they will be wearing them for the majority of their days.
The most common types of scrub caps are the ones with elastic bands. This type of cap offers the most versatility and comfort. It helps secure the cap in their head and helps limit the amount of dust and debris from entering.
Then there are bouffant scrub caps. These are quite popular as they offer more coverage and protect medical personnel’s hair from falling out. Traditional tie-back caps are also quite popular as they offer a more traditional and professional look. But regardless of which type of hat best suits the medical personnel, all of them help maintain the sterile environment necessary for surgery.
The Significance and Cultural Relevance Behind Scrub Caps
The use of scrub caps is far more than a mere investment in safety. It has also become a symbol of self-expression. Aside from their hygienic and practical importance, scrubs caps have evolved to play a more emotional role, in which specific colors can represent stories and beliefs in and out of the operating room.
Meredith Grey’s choice to wear purple is quite impactful to the viewers and reflects a type of self-care and respect for what she does. While still ensuring the safety of her patients, she is making a statement and showing the world that she does not have to fall within the lines and be part of the uniform crowd. She is special and her aspirations and dreams of success come with it.
While different persons choose different scrub caps for a variety of reasons, it is apparent that for Meredith Grey her purple swab cap is a form of self-care and expression. It perfectly encapsulates her as she stands tall and proud, unapologetically embracing her identity and the burdens of her profession.
Meredith Grey’s Purple Scrub Cap is an Iconic Symbol of Pride and Commitment
Meredith Grey’s iconic purple scrub cap is a representation of her as a person and a professional. It personifies her hard work, her commitment and the sheer importance of sterility when it comes to surgery. In an environment where conformity to the norm is expected, Meredith’s subtle yet powerful move of choosing a purple scrub cap stands out.
It is a symbol of excellence, of a rebel without a cause and an appreciation for her own power and potentials. It is Meredith’s way of saying that no matter the circumstances, she is always in charge and is proud to be a part of the incredible legacy
