The question as to whether surgical personnel should forgo the surgical cap for a bouffant has spurred opposing viewpoints from leading organizations, according to The Boston Globe.
Here are four takeaways:
1. Some regulators are calling for surgical staff to wear bouffants, rather than surgical caps, out of infection control concerns.
2. However, the American College of Surgeons is contesting the regulations, saying they make surgeons feel hot and uncomfortable.
3. Association of periOperative Registered Nurses, however, said caps leave hair and skin exposed, which may transfer bacteria to patients. ACS countered the cap is "symbolic of their profession," and there isn't evidence linking uncovered hair to wound infections.
4. The Joint Commission and CMS have reprimanded facilities for failing to wear pooper operating room attire. CMS accepts the nursing organization's guidelines, but The Joint Commission told The Boston Globe the organization is, "conducting an analysis of the major guidelines," and that, "once this is competed, we will be able to provide our position."
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