We used to hear that male pediatricians do not wear ties to prevent the spread of infection.
Recently an article in the New England Journal of Medicine “issued new guidelines to help prevent infection transmission through healthcare personnel attire outside the operating room,” while acknowledging “role of clothing in cross-transmission remains ‘poorly established.'”
Among the recommendations, published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology:
“A bare-below-the-elbows strategy” (roll up your sleeves doctor!)
… more than White Coat should be available and “hooks should be provided so that coats can be removed before patient contact. ”
“All apparel that comes in contact with the patient or patient environment should be washed after daily…”
Click here to read the full NEJM article “ID Experts Issue Recommendations on Healthcare Attire” by Amy Orciari Herman.
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Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration.
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.