The Story of Dr. Ignaz Semmelweis

What was the main observation that led Dr. Semmelweis to investigate the high mortality rates in the maternity clinic?

• The type of medical equipment used

• The difference in mortality rates between doctors' and midwives' wards

• The number of births per day

• The age of the mothers

What practice did Dr. Semmelweis introduce to reduce maternal mortality rates?

• Administering antibiotics

• Regular health check-ups for mothers

• Handwashing with a chlorine solution

• Using sterile gloves

Why did Dr. Semmelweis face resistance from his colleagues?

• They were not convinced by his results

• They believed in a different medical theory

• They thought it was too expensive

• They found handwashing inconvenient

What was the eventual outcome of Semmelweis's handwashing practice?

• It was ignored and forgotten

• It was replaced by a new method

• It was immediately accepted worldwide

• It became standard practice in healthcare

What broader lesson does Semmelweis's story teach about scientific innovation?

• New ideas are always welcomed

• Innovation is always quickly accepted

• Pioneers often face significant challenges

• Scientific truths are easily proven