Rigid infection prevention and control rules and religious discrimination: An uncomfortable juxtaposition?

Abstract

Confusion and conflict arise when infection prevention and control (IPC) policies lead to allegations of religious discrimination. Many IPC standards are generic in construct, often failing to address wider issues and general policy applicable to all may have unequal impact on minority groups. Achieving uniformity by treating everyone the same is not necessarily the same as treating them equally.

Some variation in approach might be acceptable, often desirable and sometimes inevitable but must not compromise staff safety or patient welfare. Concerns regarding clinical safety may overlook or override cultural and religious; without care, the outcome might change from cooperative to confrontational. Where, and how, to draw the line?