Researchers from Denver Health and the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center sought to compare whether there was a significant difference in the degree of bacterial contamination of physicians’ white coats and short-sleeved uniforms, according to a study published in Journal of Hospital Medicine.
For the study, 100 residents and hospitalists were ordered to either wear a physicians’ white coat or a newly laundered short-sleeved uniform. After the test period, the researchers measured the bacterial colony and MRSA counts of each garment type. Results showed there were no statistically significant differences found in bacterial or MRSA counts between physicians’ coats and newly laundered short-sleeved uniforms.
The researchers’ findings sheds new light on British government agencies’ policies banning physicians’ white coats based on the belief that long sleeves carry more bacteria and pose a greater risk of bacterial transmission.
Read the study about bacteria on physicians’ coats.
Read other coverage about infection control:
- Hospital Case Study Shows Proper Hand Hygiene Before Gloving Still a Challenge
- APIC Updates MRSA Elimination Guide
- 3 Inexpensive Ways to Increase Infection Prevention Efforts