Personal Protective Equipment
- Scope and Purpose
1.1.1 The primary objectives of PPE are:
1.1.2 Types of PPE: The specific types of PPE used vary depending on the nature of the task or
procedure. Common examples include:
1.1.3 Risk Assessment and Selection
1.1.4 Training and Compliance
Compliance with PPE guidelines and policies is crucial
for ensuring the effectiveness of infection prevention and control measures.
Healthcare organizations should implement policies and procedures to promote
adherence to PPE guidelines and provide ongoing education and support to staff.
➡️Target Audience
1.2.1 Healthcare workers providing
patient care (All clinical staff –Nurse and Nurse Assistant.
1.2.2 IPC leads/focal persons and
teams in health care facilities.
1.2.3 Diagnostic imaging staff, laboratory
personnel, technicians, Pharmacist.
1.2.4 Auxiliary services
(Environmental services, central Reprocessing Sterilization Department Workers
(CSSD).
1.2.5 Mortuary staff.
1.2.6 Administrative staff.
1.2.7 Policy maker and health care manager & other
stakeholders, such as those responsible for health care quality improvement,
patient safety, health facility accreditation/regulation infectious disease
control and surveillance.
1.2.8 Patients and any one visitors
1.1.1.1 Protection of
Healthcare Workers: PPE provides a physical barrier, minimizing the risk of
exposure to pathogens and reducing the likelihood of healthcare-associated
infections.
1.1.1.2 Safeguarding Patients: By preventing the
transmission of infections from healthcare workers to patients, PPE contributes
to patient safety and well-being.
1.1.1.3 Infection Prevention and Control: PPE
plays a pivotal role in infection prevention and control strategies, helping to
limit the spread of infectious diseases within healthcare settings.
1.1.2.1 Gloves: Disposable
gloves are widely used to protect hands from contamination. Different types of
gloves, such as nitrile, latex, or vinyl, are available based on the level of
protection required.
1.1.2.2 Gowns: Gowns are worn
to protect the body from exposure to blood and bodily fluids. They come in
various styles, including surgical gowns, isolation gowns, and fluid-resistant
gowns.
1.1.2.3 Masks: Masks are used
to protect the nose, mouth, and face from airborne particles. Surgical masks,
N95 respirators, and other types of masks are employed based on the specific
risk assessment.
1.1.2.4 Eye Protection: Goggles, face
shields, or safety glasses are used to protect the eyes from splashes of blood
or other bodily fluids.
1.1.2.5 Aprons: Aprons are worn to protect the body
from contamination during specific procedures, such as cleaning or handling
contaminated materials.
The appropriate level of PPE is determined through a risk
assessment, which evaluates the potential for exposure to biological hazards.
Factors considered in risk assessment include the type of procedure, the
patient's condition, and the likelihood of exposure to infectious agents. Based
on the risk assessment, healthcare workers select the appropriate PPE to ensure
adequate protection.
Proper training on the selection, use,
and disposal of PPE is essential for healthcare workers. Training programs
should cover topics such as:
1.1.4.1 PPE selection: Understanding
the different types of PPE and when to use them.
1.1.4.2 Donning and doffing: Correct
techniques for putting on and taking off PPE to minimize the risk of
contamination.
1.1.4.3 Maintenance and disposal: Proper care and
disposal of PPE to prevent the spread of infection.