Infection control procedures among New Zealand general practitioners: changes since the emergence of HIV infection

A random sample of 1000 general practitioners in New Zealand were surveyed to assess their infection control procedures in the surgery, particularly since the emergence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Forty three per cent of the sample routinely used surgical gloves for minor surgical procedures, 8% used gloves for venepuncture, and 7% for blood glucose testing. Thirty two per cent reported a change in glove use since the emergence of HIV infection. Changes in sterilization procedures were also studied. Thirty eight per cent of the sample reported increased use of disposable equipment, and 38% reported changes in the sterilization solution used. Increased time spent by equipment in the sterilizer was reported by 33% of respondents and increased use of an autoclave by 18%. In general, women were more likely to have adopted infection control procedures than men. Infection control was also more common among those doctors having the greatest number of patients requesting HIV testing.