New Delhi (Agency): A group of female Muslim MBBS students from the Government Medical College in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, have raised concerns over the prohibition of wearing hijab inside operation theatres. They have requested permission to wear long-sleeve scrub jackets and surgical hoods while adhering to the prescribed precautionary practices. The students believe that these alternatives would allow them to maintain their religious obligations while ensuring sterile precautions during medical procedures.
The issue came to light when a female medico from the 2020 batch wrote a letter to the college principal, Dr. Linnette J Morris, on June 26. The letter, co-signed by six other female medical students from various batches, emphasized the significance of hijab in their religious beliefs and the challenges they face in balancing religious compliance and modesty with hospital regulations.
The students highlighted that hospitals in other parts of the world provide options for hospital personnel to wear long-sleeve scrub jackets and surgical hoods, which would enable them to maintain sterile precautions and observe their hijab. They urged the principal to address the matter and grant permission for them to wear these alternatives inside the operation theatres.
Principal Morris acknowledged the receipt of the letter and emphasized the need to follow prescribed precautionary practices within the operation theatres. She explained that patient safety and maintaining a highly sterile environment are paramount concerns. Morris further stated that wearing long-sleeve jackets, as demanded by the students, is not practically feasible due to the multiple rounds of scrubbing involved during surgical procedures.
She clarified that the existing procedures and practices inside operation theatres are globally accepted and cannot be disregarded. To address the concerns raised by the students, Morris assured them that she would form a committee of surgeons to discuss the matter and evaluate the pros and cons. This committee would include professionals from the infection control team, such as staff nurses and microbiologists, to ensure a comprehensive examination of the issue.
While recognizing the students’ desire to observe their religious practices, Morris reiterated the importance of patient safety and emphasized that compromising on infection control measures is not an option. The formation of the committee aims to find a balanced solution that respects both the religious beliefs of the students and the stringent requirements of the operation theatre.
The committee will thoroughly assess the situation and provide a final outcome that takes into account the various factors involved. Morris assured the students that their concerns are being taken seriously and that they will be informed of the committee’s decision.
As the discussions proceed, it is essential to find a resolution that upholds religious freedom while ensuring the highest standards of patient care and safety. The matter at hand highlights the significance of accommodating diverse cultural and religious practices within the healthcare system, where inclusivity and respect for individual beliefs are of utmost importance.
