Laboratory coats are basically the same except for differences in
length and in design. Lengthwise there are two types of
laboratory coat (Wikipedia, 2011).
- The short coats, which are usually waist length.
- The long coat which are knee length.
Depending on the designer there are
several designs of the laboratory coats. These designs include those made from
pure cotton material, those made from cotton polyester blends and those made
from nylon, which are the disposable ones (Wikipedia, 2011).
There
are also designs that are for male; some for females and others are unisex.
Lab coats are a necessary uniform for doctors, nurses, X=Ray technicians, and lab assistants. Lab coats
are used to protect one’s clothing and to help identify the worker’s
role. Read on to know what kind of lab coat best fits your role and
personal requirement.
Colored Casual Lab Coats
A white lab coat
gets dirty very fast. A colored lab coat keeps stains and spills hidden
while helping you maintain a sterile environment. A colored casual lab
coat can double as casual outerwear in case you need to step outside the
hospital. Colored labs coats add a fresh and friendly feel to the
otherwise stark atmosphere of a medical institution.
Butcher-style Lab Coat
If you want a lab coat
that gives you full body coverage to protect you against spills and
stains, then the butcher-style lab coat is for you. This lab coat
usually has no pockets; pockets can be convenient to store things but
pockets can also snag into hooks and table corners, making you drop
delicate instruments. However, you can add hidden, hindrance free
pockets to this coat if you require.
The coat includes side hand openings through which you can access your pant
pockets. The butcher lab coat has a hindrance-free six-button snap
front closure, which ensures that your coat buttons don’t open when you
are performing a critical task. This coat is usually structured using
cotton or poly cotton for easy movement. Pathologists, forensic lab
workers and clinical medical assistants commonly use this type of lab
coat.
Counter Lab Coat
If you want a lab coat that fits more like a jacket, opt for the counter lab coat.
The length is usually 30 inches and three buttons, like a classic
jacket, close the front. This jacket includes two lower pockets and a
left breast pocket, usually with to store pens, pencils, cell phone and
so on.
This coat is structured using cotton, poly cotton, twill or thicker
fabrics including lining. Medical assistants and medical clerical staff
who deal with patient inquiries and visitors wear this type of coat.
Dental Lab Coat
Even though these coats are referred to as dental lab coats, any
medical professional can wear them. These coats reach mid-thigh length,
and are roomy, breathable and yet sturdy. These coats come with
multiple, fitted pockets; usually two roomy front pockets and a chest
pocket with a pencil stitch.
There are side access openings through which the dentist can reach
within pant pockets. Dental coats come with a vented back that provides
better movement.