The Importance of Standard Precautions

While I was visiting a friend in the hospital ward, I met my professor in the hallway. He saw me wearing a mask, so he asked if I was not feeling well. 

This happened twice so far.

His response got me thinking. Why did he ask if I was sick? Why was that his first response? I started wondering if wearing a mask to protect yourself from infectious disease is unusual. However, it wasn't enough of a stimulus to stop me from wearing mask when I was in the hospital.

Recently I was recruiting a patient for my study. My professor reviewed his chest X-ray later and told me to wear a mask when I talk to him because he had atypical tuberculosis which can linger for a long time. The patient probably still has it. He added that atypical tuberculosis is not aggressively treated because of the lack of effectiveness. I told him I did wear one and I was thankful I did, not knowing that he has unresolved tuberculosis.

The moral of the story is two-fold. First, it is extremely important to wear protective gear especially in a high-risk environment like a hospital ward where everyone is ill. The risk shouldn't be taken lightly. Second, it is important to do what you think is right, despite being judged. It is alright to doubt yourself at times, but never let other people's judgment control your thoughts.