The Role of the Anesthesiologist in Infection Control of the Anesthesia Workplace - Abstract
When thinking of patient infection in the operating room setting, the anesthesiologist is not the first vector that comes to mind. However; several studies have demonstrated a connection between infection and the anesthetic clinician. Many of the infections induced by the clinician are due to cross contamination, inadequate hand hygiene, and infrequent cleaning of the anesthesia machine and equipment. In order to bring attention to the problem of anesthesiologist-mediated infection, we review the current literature as well as contemporary
recommendations and interventions to identify preventable infections that can occur from the anesthesiologist and their work place in the operating room. This review is to provide better awareness of this growing problem and provide a better outlet for improved patient care.