A cross-sectional study to evaluate the apron contamination among health-care professionals of a rural tertiary care setting

Abstract Background: Pathogenic microorganisms are ubiquitous, and the potential of transferring harmful microorganisms in hospitals has always been a worry. Many studies have concluded that white coats worn by physicians and nurses, as well as other hospital clothes, may have a role in the transfer of dangerous microorganisms in hospitals. Many types of clothing and equipment, including stethoscopes, otoscopes, thermometers, and physicians’ white coats, have been identified as potentially pathogen-carrying. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care setting, where all participants were informed about the study and offered the option to provide informed consent as well as complete a questionnaire. The participants have accepted and provided informed consent as well as questionnaire. The study comprised 100 aprons from health-care workers (interns, PG students, UG students, and faculty). Results: Males and females made up 27% and 73% of the study’s total participants, respectively. Students made up 80% of the participants, whereas professors made up 20%. Only 11% of those who took part in the study had the practice of switching aprons. Distinct species grew in 85% of aprons’ chests, 81% of aprons’ pockets, and 65% of aprons’ sleeves. Gram-positive bacteria were the most common species discovered on aprons. Gram-negative microbes were also identified in small amounts from several aprons. Conclusion: Aprons can be a cause of cross-contamination, hence, wearing aprons in nonclinical places such as the cafeteria, classroom, and library should be prohibited to prevent bacterial contamination carried by health-care workers’ aprons.