IMA opposes demand of hijab in operation theatre, priority is patient’s safety

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) opposed the demand of a group of medical students to permit them to wear hijab in the operation theater. The IMA stated that international standards should be followed in the operation theater and priority should be given to the safety of the patients and an infection-free environment should be created. State president Dr Sulphi Noohu clarified the stand.

The students of Thiruvananthapuram Medical College wrote a letter to their principal seeking permission to cover their head and hands as hijab cannot be worn in the operation theatre. A 2020 batch MBBS student wrote a letter to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Principal Dr Lynette J Morris seeking permission to wear long sleeved scrub jackets and surgical hoods similar to hijab inside the operation theatre. The principal received the letter on June 26 containing the signatures of seven Muslim students of the 2018, 2021 and 2022 batches.

According to religious beliefs, Muslim women must cover their heads in any situation. There is a situation where it is not possible to wear hijab according to hospital norms and following operating room instructions. In many other parts of the world, there are companies that provide this type of hospital clothing. A long-sleeved scrub jacket and surgical hood are also available in hygienic options. The students want to bring attention to this issue and allow them to wear scrub jackets with long sleeves and surgical hoods in the operating theater.

The principal responded that it will be discussed and decided in the meeting of the surgeons and the infection control team. When wearing full sleeve clothes, there will be difficulty in what needs to be done in the operation theatre. Hands should be washed frequently. Hands should be kept clean when handling patients. Otherwise, there may be problems like infection. The principal had explained to the students that it would be difficult for them to wear clothes that cover their hands due to the presence of such things.