Losing touch in the era of superbugs?
editorial · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 20843889.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1370/afm.1164 and PMC identifier PMC2939423.
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Abstract
Nosocomial infections are increasingly multidrug resistant and at times more virulent. As such, they pose real threats to patients and clinicians. In this essay the author discusses his own methacillin-resistant staphylococcus infection and how it has affected his work in the hospital. In so doing, he reflects on the value of touch in the doctor-patient relationship. In particular, he discusses how gloves serve as a barrier to infection but also create a small distance between the doctors and their patients. The implications of contact precautions must be considered as we reflect on balancing patient-centered care with infection control.