Ever since the pandemic, the PPE kit has become a household name. Yet, many are unaware of the proper care needed while donning and doffing them. Though health care workers are required to wear this kit for extended hours and are well aware of the procedure, troubles arise when a non-healthcare worker has to assist a family member or friend who might be a patient. To help with the correct process, here is the detailed procedure both for non-healthcare workers.
What is it?
Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE, is specialized clothing and equipment worn by personnel in the medical and hospital industries to ensure their safety and protection against contagious diseases. A PPE kit, which includes head coverings, hand gloves, full-length gowns, shoes, eye protection, specialized masks, and respirators, enables healthcare workers to avoid direct contact with microbiological pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, as well as contaminated body fluids such as blood.
Types of PPE
Several types of PPE are created to completely protect employees and limit the danger of injuries or risks. These are:
- Safety glasses and impact goggles provide eye protection.
- Surgical masks and respirators are used for respiratory protection.
- Face shields offer protection for the face.
- Helmets and hard hats provide head protection.
- Gloves and wrist cuffs provide hand protection.
- Gowns and full-body suits provide bodily protection.
- Earplugs, noise bands, and acoustic foams are all examples of hearing protection.
- Safety boots and hidden shoes provide foot protection.
- Accessibility and Height Body harnesses and fall-arrest systems provide protection.
How to wear it?
Everyone is wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves against COVID-19 during this exceptional period. For the most part, PPE is designated for health care workers and others who operate in a healthcare setting. A PPE kit for non-healthcare occupations often consists of a face mask and gloves. A face mask, eye protection, a gown or protective “suit,” and gloves are examples of PPE for healthcare personnel.
Procedure for donning (wearing)
- Secure the face covering and make sure it fits snugly.
- Gloves should be worn over both hands.
Procedure for doffing (taking it off)
- Remove the gloves first, rolling from the inside to outside.
- Keep in mind that the gloves’ outside is soiled. With the opposite gloved hand, grab the outside of the glove and pull it off. Remove the removed glove and place it in the gloved hand. Slide the ungloved hand’s fingers under the remaining glove at the wrist, peeling the glove off over the first glove and discarding it.
- Remember that the front of the mask is contaminated and should not be touched. Take hold of the bottom and pull it out from the inside. Remove or untie the closures. Place the face-covering inside a clean paper bag for the purpose of reuse.
Conclusion
PPE offers excellent protection for all organs of the employees that are exposed to harmful substances and infections in the healthcare environment and other high-risk professions, provided a proper wearing removing procedure is followed.
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