AMANUEL MENTAL SPECIALIZED HOSPITAL NURSING DIRECTOR

DRESSING CODE PROTOCOL

PREPARED BY NURSING DIRECTOR IN COLLABORATION WITH NURSING

CLINICAL AUDIT TEAM

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

DECEMBER 2023 G.C

I|Page
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................1

2. PURPOSE ...............................................................................................................................2

3. MAJOR DRESSING CODE PRINCIPALS ............................................................................3

3.1 Professional Appearance; Cleanliness and dress ................................................................3

3.2 The type and color of uniforms for different departments and professions..........................4

3.3 Jewelry and cosmetics .......................................................................................................4

3.4 Personal Electronics ..........................................................................................................5

3.5 Dressing Code for Religious, Disabled, and Pregnant Health Professionals........................5

3.6 Content of the Uniform ......................................................................................................6

4. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STATE BODY ..........................................................................6

4.1 The role and responsibility of professionals and students ...................................................6

4.2 Establishment and function of the Health Professionals Dressing System Committee ........6

II | P a g e
1. INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Dressing Code Protocol for Employees and Students at St. Amanuel Mental
Specialized Hospital. This protocol has been developed to establish a standardized and
professional dress code for all employees and students within our esteemed institution. Adhering
to a consistent dress code is essential in promoting professionalism, maintaining hygiene
standards, and ensuring the comfort and safety of our patients. At St. Amanuel Mental
Specialized Hospital, we recognize the impact of visual impressions on patient trust and
confidence. Therefore, it is crucial for both our employees and students to present themselves in
a manner that inspires trust, conveys competence, and upholds the values and reputation of our
institution. This dressing code protocol outlines the specific dress code requirements, personal
hygiene standards, and guidelines for professional appearance for all categories of employees
and students. Furthermore, this protocol emphasizes the importance of infection control
measures, safety considerations, and the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) where
applicable. These guidelines apply to both employees and students, as we believe in fostering a
learning environment that aligns with our commitment to professionalism and patient-centered
care.

By adhering to this dressing code protocol, we collectively contribute to maintaining a

professional, respectful, and patient-centric environment that supports the highest standards of
care and reflects the dedication of our employees and students. We appreciate the commitment of
both our employees and students in upholding this protocol and ensuring a positive experience
for all individuals receiving care at St. Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital.

1|Page
2. PURPOSE
The Dressing Code Protocol for Employees as well as for students on professional attachments at
St. Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital serves multiple purposes that collectively contribute to
the protection, professionalism, trust, and accountability within our healthcare institution. Firstly,
the protocol aims to safeguard the employees and the user community by minimizing the risk of
communicable diseases and injuries through adherence to appropriate attire and infection control
measures. Secondly, it fosters a sense of professional pride and love for their work, instilling a
positive mindset and dedication among the employees. Additionally, the protocol enables easy
identification and understanding of the employees serving the client community, promoting
efficient communication and customer-oriented service. Moreover, the protocol nurtures the trust
of the community in our institution and the employees providing services, reinforcing the
reputation and confidence in our organization. Lastly, it establishes accountability and
independence for both the institution and employees, ensuring a consistent and responsible
approach to their roles and responsibilities. By upholding this protocol, we create an
environment that prioritizes the well-being of both the employees and the individuals we serve,
fostering professionalism, trust, and excellence in our practices.

2|Page
3. MAJOR DRESSING CODE PRINCIPALS

3.1 Professional Appearance; Cleanliness and dress

Health professional attire should be neat, clean, appropriately fitting, matched and coordinated
and have a professional manner.

 ID badges must be worn at all times by professionals. The badges should include the
institution's name, the professional's full name, a photo, and their title/job. This ensures clear
identification and promotes a safe environment. The badges are designed to be inclusive and
respectful. All professionals are required to wear their ID badges visibly and appropriately.
 Employees must wear comfortable, clean, and non-open, non-slip shoes at work. The shoes
should have a low heel size that does not hinder work efficiency. These requirements ensure
workplace safety, comfort, and optimal performance.
 Wearing the uniform is only permitted within the authorized workplace and not elsewhere.
Modification of the uniform by healthcare professionals, at their own expense, is not allowed
unless specified by the prescribed standard. The uniform must adhere to the established
guidelines without any alterations.
 In compliance with climate considerations, the institute provides all health professionals
with a sweater/jacket that bears the institute's logo, name, and professional ID. This
authorized garment ensures uniformity and professional identification while maintaining
suitable comfort in varying climate conditions.
 Hair is to be kept neat and clean. Employees with long hair who have direct patient contact or
work with food or machinery must have their hair pinned up off the shoulders, secured at the
nape of the neck, or secured in a hair net. Braids, locks and twists are allowed and must be
secured. Beards, mustaches and sideburns must be clean and neat at all times and at a length
that will not create a work-related safety hazard
 Employees who have direct contact with patients (those employees who touch patients as a
part of their job description) and those indirectly involved in patient care, such as Pharmacy,
Housekeeping, Laboratory, and Sterile Processing must comply with
 Nails must be kept clean, short and natural. Artificial nails, acrylics or other artificial
materials (including nail jewelry) applied over the nails are prohibited.

3|Page
3.2 The type and color of uniforms for different departments and professions
When any health professional is serving in the emergency room, wear a uniform with the
color of Burgendi
 When health professionals are assigned to departments other than those previously
mentioned, distinct uniform guidelines are in place:
 Physicians are required to wear light silver gowns, signifying their professional status and
expertise within the healthcare facility.
 Nurses are expected to don light blue uniforms, which symbolize their caregiving role and
proficiency in delivering comprehensive patient care.
 For other professionals in disciplines such as laboratory, pharmacy, Psychologists, Integrated
Clinical and community mental health specialists and related areas, dark blue uniforms are
designated.
 When any health student does their internship at our institution they would wear uniforms
that they eventually sue after graduation with a clear and distinguishable badges signifying
their name, academic year as well as their respective collage
 When health professionals work in the psychiatric ward, it is preferred that they do not wear
regular clothes as they may potentially disrupt the patient's mental state. Instead, it is
recommended that they wear appropriate attire that promotes a calm and reassuring
environment, allowing them to provide optimal care and support to the patients.
 Non-health professional staff working in healthcare institutions should adhere to guidelines
that do not conflict with their own dress code regulations. It is important for them to make
necessary preparations to ensure that their attire aligns with the required standards for
maintaining a professional and supportive environment within the healthcare setting.

3.3 Jewelry and cosmetics

 All staff, including non-health professionals, must comply with the requirement of removing
or covering any jewelry and body tattoos while on duty.
 Cosmetics, perfumes, and lotions used by both patients and colleagues should be
unobtrusive, avoiding strong scents that may cause discomfort or allergies.

4|Page
 During direct body contact with patients, it is preferable for health professionals to refrain
from wearing wristwatches, as they can harbor bacteria and interfere with proper hygiene
practices.
 Health professionals are prohibited from using unnatural nails, and natural nails must be kept
short, clean, and free from nail color.
 Women's hair should be clean, properly maintained, and if long, secured appropriately during
work to prevent interference with patient care. Men's hair should be cut short to ensure a
professional appearance.

3.4 Personal Electronics

In order to maintain professionalism and focus during working hours, it is expected that personal
electronic devices should not be utilized for personal purposes.

 However, in cases of compelling personal circumstances, individuals may seek permission

from their immediate supervisor to utilize personal electronic devices outside of the
workplace.
 In such situations, individuals may be granted limited access to personal electronic devices
during designated break times, such as when using restroom facilities, within the permissible
time limits.

3.5 Dressing Code for Religious, Disabled, and Pregnant Health Professionals
 Except for work caps and religious clothing, any health professional in the workplace is
prohibited from wearing any other types of headgear or garments that cover the face.
 Religious clothing that significantly hinders or obscures the identification of facial features is
prohibited in the workplace.
 Regarding the specific circumstances surrounding pregnant professionals and those with
disabilities who encounter challenges adhering to uniform guidelines, the health institution's
management is adept at addressing such issues and providing appropriate accommodations.
This includes accommodating individuals with physical injuries or pregnancies, ensuring
their well-being while upholding the required standards of the institution.

5|Page
3.6 Content of the Uniform
The uniform should be composed of a top-quality fabric known as "1st grade tetran 6000." This
fabric has been carefully selected for its exceptional standards and suitability for the uniform's
construction. As for the waistband, it is permissible to choose between two materials: cord or
plastic. Both options offer flexibility and durability based on individual requirements and
preferences. Furthermore, it is vital that the dress design incorporates a practical side opening.
This design feature allows for convenient access and closure, ensuring ease of use and
functionality in the uniform.

4. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STATE BODY

4.1 The role and responsibility of professionals and students

The employees as well as the students are expected to adhere to the established ethical principles
that have been formulated in accordance with the prescribed guidelines. It is mandatory for them
to comply with the designated dress code, as outlined by the organization. Failure to wear the
uniform while attending work is strictly prohibited and will be considered a violation of the
established protocols. Moreover, any consequences resulting from non-compliance with the dress
code will be the sole responsibility of the employee, as they will be held accountable for any
actions taken beyond the scope of the established guidelines.

4.2 Establishment and function of the Health Professionals Dressing System

Committee
 The Executive Committee of the Health Professional Dressing System, comprising
representatives from the Medical, Hospital, Emergency Medical, Director of Nursing,
Metern, Department of Human Resources, and Employee Representative, consists of a
minimum of seven (7) experts from the purchasing department and the quality department.
 This committee is headed by Metren, who serves as the secretary of the quality department
 The committee is responsible for overseeing various aspects related to the uniforms worn by
health professionals during their duty hours. They ensure that the uniforms are worn
appropriately and conduct bi-monthly inspections for compliance. Additionally, their
responsibilities encompass the selection, tracking, and verification of the quality, type, and
size of the uniforms.
6|Page
 In cases where purchased uniforms fall short of the prescribed quality and standards, the
committee takes corrective measures to rectify the situation.
 One of their key duties is to effectively address and resolve suggestions and complaints put
forward by the professionals.
 The committee serves as a platform for discussing and deliberating upon the dress code
guidelines, with an emphasis on educating and reinforcing its importance among the
professionals.
 Furthermore, the committee holds the authority to investigate cases filed by dress code
experts. They meticulously examine the details of each case and subsequently present their
findings to the Discipline Committee. Based on the established guidelines, the Discipline
Committee then makes informed decisions regarding the appropriate course of action.

7|Page