Hospital uniform risk questioned

Health officials have defended allowing hospital staff to wear their uniforms outside work after questions were raised over infection risks.

Nottingham city and county councils' joint health scrutiny committee asked whether the policy should be reviewed.

Staff are currently allowed to wear their uniform travelling to and from hospitals as long as it is covered.

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust said research had shown there to be no risk to patients or staff.

'Reassure the public'

Officials said some staff need to wear their uniform to travel to work because of a lack of hospital changing facilities, but it is not encouraged because of public perception that it could pose an infection risk.

Dr Stephen Fowlie, the trust's medical director, said: "The public don't want to see large numbers of our staff wandering around in their uniform because members of the public consider this is not the best professional practice."

Some trusts across England have already banned the wearing of uniforms outside work.

Derby Hospitals NHS Trust took the step in 2007, claiming it would reassure the public over infection risks and create a more professional image.

The two Nottingham authorities will meet later to discuss a potential review of the policy.