The swab rack--an outdated ritual.

The risk of Theatre Staff becoming infected from blood borne viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis B is steadily increasing. Sir David Cox's report (1988) predicted that the number of people infected with HIV by the end of 1987 would be between 20,000 and 50,000. Although these predictions are now thought to be more accurately estimated between 12,000 and 26,000, the number of people developing Aids is still expected to rise at an alarming rate. The precautions taken within the Theatre Department to reduce this risk are becoming transparently inadequate. It is no longer sufficient--or acceptable practice--to only be vigilant in avoiding blood contamination if the patient falls within a certain 'high risk' category. A happily married, middle aged woman may also be a virus carrier, particularly considering the long dormancy the HIV virus can exhibit before being detectable. It must be assumed that everyone is a potential carrier and the same precautionary measures taken for every patient, regardless of their past history, or present appearance.