Serial

Recommendations

1

Ensure proper selection and use of PPE based on the nature of the patient interaction and potential for exposure to blood, body fluids and/or infectious material:

a. Wear gloves when it can be reasonably anticipated that contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials, mucous membranes, non-intact skin, potentially contaminated skin or contaminated equipment could occur. (Strong recommendation)

b. Wear gown that is appropriate to the task to protect skin and prevent soiling of clothing during procedures and activities that could cause contact with blood, body fluids, secretions, or excretions (Strong recommendation)

c. Use protective eyewear and a mask, or a face shield, to protect the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth during procedures and activities that could generate splashes or sprays of blood, body fluids, secretions and excretions. Select masks, goggles, face shields, and combinations of each according to the need anticipated by the task performed (Strong recommendation)

d. Remove and discard PPE, other than respirators, upon completing a task before leaving the patient’s room or care area. If a respirator is used, it should be removed and discarded (or reprocessed if reusable) after leaving the patient room or care area and closing the door (Strong recommendation)

e. Do not use the same gown or pair of gloves for care of more than one patient. Remove and discard disposable gloves upon completion of a task or when soiled during the process of care (Strong recommendation)

f. Do not wash gloves for the purpose of reuse (Strong recommendation)

2

Ensure that healthcare personnel have immediate access to and are trained and able to select, put on, remove, and dispose of PPE in a manner that protects themselves, the patient, and others (Strong recommendation)