Your Doctor’s White Coat Can Be a Threat to Your Health, Scientists Say

May 6, 2019  10:55

When we think about doctors, the white lab coat is often one of the first things that come to mind. In fact, many of us do not feel comfortable seeing doctors who dress without them. Yet this symbol of the medical profession may be a breeding ground for deadly bacteria.

New research suggests that the lab coat is often contaminated with bacteria, including pathogens linked to a number of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and bacteria which is drug-resistant. The research found that sixteen percent of white coats are contaminated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and 42 percent with the gram-negative class of bacteria which includes E. coli and chlamydia trachomatis. Such bacteria is linked to a range of conditions, including sepsis and pneumonia.

In India, HAIs are on the rise with one infection occurring for every four hospital visits. In the case of sepsis, 63 percent of patients die in the intensive care unit (ICU).

The study does not just link contamination with bacteria to what doctors wear. Equipment such as stethoscopes and even personal devices like tablets and mobile phones can also become contaminated.

Handwashing becomes especially important when it comes to handling equipment and preventing the spread of viral infections. Meanwhile, ensuring white coats and other items of clothing worn on the job are washed regularly is key to preventing the spread of bacteria. It has also been suggested that switching to a short-sleeved white coat could make a difference.

Source: healthissuesindia.com

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