The clinician–microbiologist handshake: Need of the hour

Clinical microbiology is fast expanding its horizons, not confined to the realms of laboratory alone, but stretching into the wards, intensive care units, and operation theaters. Preventive strategies such as proper hand washing, an unfailing compliance to device-related bundle care protocols, and antimicrobial stewardship guidelines are the need of the hour. Every bug in the laboratory needs to be seen in clinical context and for this to occur an active interaction between the clinician and microbiologist is of paramount importance. There is a definite need for more multidisciplinary approach and clinical case discussions.