Tying Hospital Gowns: A Step-By-Step Guide

Putting on a hospital gown can be a daunting experience, especially if you are already feeling anxious about an upcoming medical procedure. Hospital gowns are designed to provide medical practitioners with access to the patient's body while preserving the patient's dignity as much as possible. There are two main types of hospital gowns: a straight up-and-down style and a wrap style. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to tie a hospital gown, so you can feel confident and comfortable during your next medical appointment or procedure.

Identify the gown type: straight up-and-down, wrap, or pullover

Hospital gowns are designed to provide easy access for medical professionals while maintaining patient comfort and modesty. There are several types of hospital gowns, including the typical split-back gown, gowns for expecting mothers, and those for surgery. However, the three main types of gowns in terms of how they are worn are the straight up-and-down style, the wrap style, and the pullover style.

The straight up-and-down style has two panels that meet in the middle on one side. Most patients put this side at the back, but it can also be worn with the gap at the front for easier access. This style usually has ties at the neck and waist. If you are wearing this type of gown, turn it so that it completely covers your front, slip your arms into the sleeves, and pull the gown up to your neck. If you have upper body mobility, tie the neck strings behind your head. If not, tie them in front of your chest and then slip the strings over your head. You may wish to tie the waist strings behind you if you will be walking around, but you can leave them untied if you will be lying down.

The wrap style has two fabric panels that overlap at an angle, providing more coverage for patients but slightly reducing access for medical practitioners. This style usually has waist ties but no neck tie. Slip into the gown with the gaps facing the front, and then tie the waist strings behind you if you will be walking around. If you will be lying down, you can leave the waist strings untied to avoid pressure on your lower back.

The pullover style is a simple gown that is pulled over the head like a t-shirt. It is a good option for those who can manage it, as it removes the worry of the gown accidentally opening. It has an opening at the back that starts in the middle, so undergarments are required. This style of gown is wide enough for an adult head to fit through comfortably, and most patients can put it on with ease. However, it may not be suitable for those with strength or mobility issues, especially if they do not have assistance.

Ask a nurse or doctor about tie placement and underwear

If you're unsure about how to tie a hospital gown, it's best to ask a nurse or doctor for help. They will be able to advise you on the correct tie placement and whether you need to remove your underwear.

Hospital gowns can have ties in the front or the back, so it's important to ask the nurse or doctor about the tie placement before you put on the gown. If you don't get the chance to ask, you can usually figure it out by slipping the gown on. The top set of laces on most hospital gowns are tied behind the neck, just above the shoulders. The lower laces can be tied in the back or the front, depending on the style of the gown.

It's important to tie the gown securely but not too tightly. You should also avoid double-knotting the laces, as this will make it difficult to untie the gown later. If you're having trouble tying the knots, you can try tying the top ties first and then slipping the gown on over your head.

In terms of underwear, you can usually keep your underwear and bra on unless your chest or genitals are being examined. However, it's always best to check with the nurse or doctor before they leave the room. If you're unsure, you can leave your underwear on and then double-check with the doctor when they come in.

Additionally, you can ask your healthcare provider if you can put on another layer, such as sweatpants, underneath your gown. However, if you have a catheter or a medical device in your lower body, you may not be able to do this.

Tie the neck laces in a bow, like shoelaces

To tie a hospital gown, you'll want to start by identifying which type of gown you have. There are two main types: a straight up-and-down style and a wrap style. The straight up-and-down style has two panels that meet in the middle on one side, while the wrap style has two fabric panels that overlap at an angle.

Once you've identified the style of your gown, you can begin tying the neck laces. The top set of laces on most hospital gowns will sit right behind your neck, just above your shoulders. Grab one lace in each hand and tie them together in a bow, just like you would with your shoelaces. Be careful not to double knot the bow, as this will make it hard to undo later. If you're having trouble tying the knot behind your head, try taking the gown off and tying the top ties in a bow first. Then, you can slip the gown on over your head, leaving the bow intact.

It's important to note that some hospital gowns have ties at the front, while others are at the back. If you're unsure, you can ask a nurse or doctor about the correct way to tie your gown. In general, it's recommended to tie the gown in a way that ensures the ties don't touch the patient or anything "dirty," especially in isolation rooms. This may involve tying the gown slightly to the side, within your peripheral vision, but still considered on your back.

Additionally, remember that you don't have to wear a traditional hospital gown. If you're uncomfortable with the ties or prefer more coverage, you can ask for a pullover gown, which is simple to put on and provides peace of mind that it won't accidentally open.

Tie the lower laces: behind your back or around to the front

Hospital gowns come in a variety of styles, but they all serve the purpose of providing easy access for healthcare providers to examine you, run tests, or check your vitals. The two main types of hospital gowns are the straight up-and-down style and the wrap style. The former has two panels that meet in the middle on one side, while the latter features two fabric panels that overlap at an angle, offering more coverage.

When tying the lower laces of a hospital gown, the first step is to identify whether the ties are at the back or the front. Traditional hospital gowns typically have a second set of ties that fasten at the lower back. If this is the case, reach behind you and grab one lace in each hand. Proceed to tie the laces together in a bow as tightly as possible to ensure the gown remains closed. If you find it challenging, try pulling the ties to one side of your body for improved visibility and easier manipulation. Remember to avoid double-knotting, as this will make it difficult to untie later.

Some hospital gowns are designed with lower ties that fasten at the front, providing additional coverage. If you notice a tie near your hips at the front of your gown, reach behind to locate the second tie near your lower back. Pull the back tie around to the front, bringing it across your side. Once both ties are at the front, tie them together in a bow near your hip. This configuration provides enhanced coverage for your backside. Gowns with front-tying laces often incorporate more fabric than those that tie in the back.

It is important to tie the lower laces securely but not too tightly to avoid discomfort or pressure on your lower back. Additionally, consider pairing your hospital gown with other clothing items, such as sweatpants or a soft blanket, to enhance your comfort during your stay.

Adjust waist ties for comfort and coverage

Hospital gowns can be intimidating to wear, especially if you are unsure how to tie them to ensure comfort and coverage. The first step is to identify the type of hospital gown you have. There are two main types: a straight up-and-down style and a wrap style. The straight up-and-down style has two panels that meet in the middle on one side, usually at the back, but sometimes at the front for easier access. The wrap style features two fabric panels that overlap at an angle, providing more coverage.

Once you have identified the style of your gown, you can adjust the waist ties accordingly. If you have a wrap-style gown, locate the inside waist tie on either the left or right side. Take the tie on the edge of the opposite side and attach it to the inner waist tie. Repeat this process with the outer waist tie, tying it to the string on the opposite side. Adjust the fabric panels so that they hang comfortably and provide adequate coverage.

For the straight up-and-down style gown, the waist ties are typically located at the back. Reach behind you and grab one lace in each hand. Tie the laces together in a bow as tightly as you need to keep your gown closed and provide coverage for your backside. If you are having trouble tying a bow behind your back, you can pull the ties to one side so you can see them more easily. Alternatively, you can tie the bow in front of you and then slip it over your head, although this is not standard practice in hospitals.

It is important to tie the waist ties in loose bows to avoid any pressure on your lower back, especially if you will be lying in bed for an extended period. You can also ask your doctor or nurse if you can put on pants underneath the gown for added coverage and warmth. Remember, your comfort and dignity are important, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance or an alternative gown if needed.

Frequently asked questions