Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Review

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Precaution Categories

  • There are four types of precautions based on the infection type or pathogen the patient may have, along with the corresponding PPE required for each:

    • Direct or Indirect Patient Contact: PPE required when there is a risk of exposure through direct or indirect contact with the patient.

    • Bloodborne Pathogens: These include viruses and bacteria that can be transmitted through blood and body fluids, e.g., Hepatitis B (Hep B), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Malaria.

    • Droplet Precautions: IPPE needed during activities involving a patient who may cough, sneeze, or has a respiratory illness, such as influenza.

    • Airborne Precautions: Necessary for diseases transmitted through the air, including influenza, meningitis, and COVID-19.

Gloves

  • Gloves are an essential part of PPE for healthcare workers when handling potentially infectious materials. Specific guidelines include:

    • When to Wear Gloves: Required during contact with:

      • Blood

      • Body fluids

      • Non-intact skin

      • Mucous membranes

      • Other secretions and excretions (excluding sweat)

    • When to Remove Gloves: Must be removed if:

      • They become visibly soiled, torn, or punctured.

      • Moving from one patient to another.

      • Before touching non-contaminated items and surfaces.

    • Hand Washing: While gloves provide protection, thorough handwashing remains crucial and cannot be replaced by wearing gloves.

Gowns

  • Gowns are utilized to protect the healthcare professional's skin and clothing from contaminants when working near potentially infectious materials. Key points include:

    • Usage: Worn during procedures that might produce splashes or sprays of:

      • Blood

      • Body fluids

      • Secretions and excretions

    • Fit and Coverage: A gown should:

      • Fully cover the torso.

      • Fit snugly against the body.

      • Extend to the arms and wrists.

    • Condition Check: Always check for holes or tears, and ensure no gaps exist at the seams before wearing.