Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Protocol

Introduction

Welcome to the second module of Unit 3B, focusing on the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in alignment with ADA, CDC, and OSHA guidelines. Proper PPE protocol is paramount for ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare providers. This module aims to guide you through the dos and don’ts of using PPE in a clinical setting.

Topics Covered

1. Types of PPE

Key Concepts:

• Gloves: Protects hands from exposure to pathogens.
• Masks: Shield respiratory passages from airborne particles.
• Eye Protection: Guards against splashes and sprays.
• Gowns: Protects clothing and skin from contamination.

2. Donning PPE (Putting On)

Key Concepts:

1. Hand Hygiene: Always perform hand hygiene before putting on PPE.
2. Gown: Put on the gown first.
3. Mask: Place the mask securely over the nose and mouth.
4. Eye Protection: Apply eye protection (goggles or a face shield).
5. Gloves: Gloves go on last, ensuring the cuff of the glove is pulled over the wrist of the gown.

Examples:

• Remember to adjust your mask so it fits snugly but comfortably against the side of the face.
• Double-gloving can provide an additional layer of protection during procedures that expose you to blood or bodily fluids.

3. Doffing PPE (Taking Off)

Key Concepts:

1. Gloves: Remove gloves first, taking care not to contaminate your hands.
2. Eye Protection: Carefully remove goggles or face shield.
3. Gown: Unfasten the gown ties and remove.
4. Mask: Handle only by the ties or ear loops.
5. Hand Hygiene: Wash hands immediately after removing all PPE.

Examples:

• Always remove gloves so that the glove’s exterior never touches your bare hands.
• When removing the mask, do not touch the front of the mask, as it is considered contaminated.

4. Cross Contamination

Key Concepts:

• PPE Sequence: Follow the proper sequence for donning and doffing PPE to avoid cross-contamination.
• Reuse: Know which PPE items are reusable and how to properly disinfect them.

Examples:

• Never reuse disposable gloves.
• If using reusable PPE like a face shield, ensure it is properly disinfected before the next use.

5. Storage and Disposal

Key Concepts:

• Labeling: Clearly label PPE storage areas.
• Disposal: Dispose of single-use PPE in designated biohazard waste containers.

Examples:

• Ensure that disposal bins for biohazardous waste are conveniently located but also safely out of the way of high-traffic areas.
• Store reusable PPE in a clean and easily accessible location.

Conclusion

Understanding and adhering to proper PPE protocols is crucial for minimizing the risk of cross-contamination and ensuring the highest level of safety in healthcare settings. Always remember, the correct use of PPE starts and ends with proper hand hygiene. Keep yourself and your patients safe by mastering these PPE protocols.