Restrict mobile phone use On Duty, No jewellery below elbow: DGHS Advisory for healthcare workers

New Delhi: To safeguard the well-being of both patients and healthcare personnel, the Director General of Health Sciences (DGHS) has directed all the healthcare workers of Central government hospitals not to wear jewellery below the elbow and restrict the use of mobile phones while on duty in critical areas.

Issuing a directive in this regard, Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Sciences asked respective hospitals to maintain hygiene to minimize the risk of infection transmission and to ensure that an optimum standard of hygiene and patient care are maintained at all times.

Dr Atul Goel has directed all the directors and medical superintendents of central government hospitals to introduce certain safety protocols to reinforce infection control practices within their facilities. 

Jewellery below the elbow and usage of mobile phones while on duty have been prohibited to prevent the potential spread of infection and minimize infection risks.

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Addressing the director or medical superintendents of central government hospitals, Dr Atul said, "There is substantial evidence that wearing hand jewellery below the elbow increases total skin microorganism counts. Similarly, the use of mobile phones, while on duty especially in critical areas like ICUS, HDUS, post-operative wards and OTS, poses infection risks."

"Effective immediately, all healthcare workers of Central Govt. Hospitals are required to remove all types of jewellery below the elbow while on duty. This includes rings, bangles, bracelets, religious threads and wristwatches. This precaution is essential to minimize the risk of infection transmission and to ensure that an optimum standard of hygiene and patient care are maintained at all times. Respective hospitals can revise their SOPS on hand hygiene and specifically mention where wristwatches are permitted," said the order.

In addition, it has been directed to create and implement a policy that limits the usage of cell phones in patient zones and high-risk areas like ICUs, HDUs, post-operative wards, and operation rooms.

"We understand that this may require some adjustments, but we trust that you will prioritize the safety and welfare of our patients above all else. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated and will contribute to creating a safer and more conducive healing environment for all," added the order.

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