Hospital gowns leave patients vulnerable – their time’s up

More humanising and dignified options must be explored, say researchers
  • Opinion
  • Dr Liza Morton Dr Emmanouil Georgiadis Dr Nicola Cogan (PhD)
  • 2 Comments
  • 18 January 2019

Most of us feel vulnerable when hospitalised, and being told to strip off and put on a pre-worn, revealing, backless gown does nothing to improve matters.

Being escorted in this attire, often through public areas of a hospital, pretty much completes the humiliation.

What you wear affects how you feel about yourself. Studies suggest that clothing affects self-esteem, and getting dressed is a process of self-expression.

What you wear informs others of your social standing, your ambitions, emotions, motivations and even your employment status.