The effect of clothing on the dissemination of bacteria in operating theatres

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Abstract
The effect of different types of clothing in modifying the dissemination of bacteria was studied in an experimental chamber, using a slit-air sampler to quantify the aerial contamination. Observations were made on volunteers wearing conventional operating-theatre clothing, outdoor clothing, and specially designed theatre wear, both with and without a gown, mask, cap, and boots in all three groups. The results showed that aerial contamination was least when outdoor clothing was worn. The addition of a sterile theatre gown, mask, cap, and boots reduced this dissemination by half in all the groups. Leaving aside considerations of comfort and hygiene of the staff, it is concluded that outdoor clothing need not be removed before entering an operating theatre (or clean area) provided that a gown, mask, etc., are worn.