New Delhi: In a recent directive issued by the Centre, healthcare workers have been advised to refrain from wearing jewellery below the elbow while on duty. The use of cell phones has also been restricted in areas like ICUs, HDUs, post-operative wards, and operation rooms as they pose the risk of contracting infections.
The directive was addressed to the heads of all hospitals run by the central government. It was issued by Dr Atul Goel, the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) at the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It revealed that wearing hand jewellery below the elbows increases the total count of skin microorganisms.
In a letter dated April 9, Dr Goel suggested the revision of standard operating procedures (SOPs) on hand hygiene, and to specifically mention where wristwatches are allowed to be worn.
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