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Abstract |
Concern is increasing among surgeons and operating theatre staff about the risks of occupational exposure to HIV and hepatitis viruses.’-6 There has also been much public debate about the risk of patients who undergo invasive procedures acquiring these viruses from infected surgeons.7 Eminent bodies have published reports on the topic, yet views vary about the risk of transmission of HIV8-’4 and the level of precautions appropriate to British hospitals.’59 It was against this background that in October 1991 the Hospital Infection Society and the Surgical Infection Study Group convened a one day workshop at the Royal Society of Medicine, London, to review the degree of risk and prepare practical guidelines for surgeons, anaesthetists, and health care workers working in operating theatres. Its report forms the basis of the recommendations presented below. The incidence of nosocomially acquired hepatitis far exceeds that of HIV infection. Hepatitis B is preventable with immunisation and hence is discussed first. |
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