Abstract

RODRIGUEZ PEREZ, Abilio Ubaldo  and  SANCHEZ SANTOS, Leonardo. Nosocomial infection. Some ethical considerations in the microbiological diagnosis. Rev Cubana Hig Epidemiol [online]. 2004, vol.42, n.3. ISSN 0253-1751.

Bioethics appears in the 70's as a discipline before the impetuous advance of biological sciences and other related sciences, which showed once more the enormous potentialities of science when it is applied for the benefit of society. At present, the scientific advances and technological changes are accompanied with new social and cultural attitudes and, in not a few ocassions, these changes cause concerns, preoccupations and even fear, but also hope for the ways that are paved and for the unpredictable perspectives they may have. Some ethical considerations in the development of the microbiological diagnosis of nosocomial infections are made known in this paper. Interesting reflections are made for the professional and the technician carrying out these activities. It is stressed not only the spirit of humanism and social responsibility shown in the concrete actions of the diagnosis, but also the protection of the community and the environment as a whole.

Keywords : Nosocomial infection; ethical considerations; microbiologist.