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J Med Ethics 2003;29:212 doi:10.1136/jme.29.4.212
  • Controversy

MRSA in the Netherlands: preventive measure raises a moral issue

  1. D O E Gebhardt
  1. Anna van Burenlaan I, 2341 VE Oegstgeest, the Netherlands; doe.gebhardt{at}planet.nl

      Abstract

      In the Netherlands the incidence of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in hospitals is surprisingly low when compared to that of neighbouring countries. It is believed that this favourable condition is caused by stringent precautionary measures such as complete isolation of the patients. In one case the nurse taking care of such patients was herself MRSA positive. This condition changed and she became MRSA negative after removal (at her request) of her tonsils. The question is raised how far one should go to protect patients when the preventive measures taken may endanger the health of those who take care of them.

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