University of Portsmouth to test antibacterial gown
Hospital garb is coated with an anti-microbial coating known as Permagard; effort intended to mitigate MRSA transmission; unique design also minimizes contact with nurses
Every year millions of Americans get sick in the most unlikely place: the hospital. The culprit: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a specific strain of the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium that has developed antibiotic resistance to all penicillins. Thus, the only defense is proper hygiene. To aid in that effort, DCS Designs, a creative (and enterprising) clothing company associated with the University of Portsmouth, has designed a hospital gown with an anti-microbial coating called Permagard. Not only that, the design of the gown itself is intended to minimize contact with nurses, thereby reducing the chance of cross-contamination. “I’m thrilled that my design is being used for the trial. I designed the gown to promote patient dignity, comfort and safety but I’m delighted that it might help prevent the spread of diseases like MRSA,” Fatima said, referring to a study soon to be underway at University College London Hospital.
-read more in this university news release
