Looooooooong White Coat

Recently lost a patient in the ED from a sudden cardiac arrest. Went with an attending to speak with pt’s husband. I was surprised to see another clinician speaking with him since I didn’t see her in the code.

As the attending was speaking, I glanced over at the person wearing a long white coat to her mid thigh and navy scrubs. I squinted my eyes to make out what her name tag said and saw that it said “Social Worker”.

It was odd. I was relieved that she was already meeting with him as that’s what he needed. Honestly at this point I don’t even care what a white coat used to resemble. It just bothered me because of how cold it felt. Sure.. wear scrubs because maybe you’ll get dirty in the ED. But why a long ass white coat? It looked so unapproachable and cold and not to mention embarrassing.