Why Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is Essential in Healthcare
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a fundamental element of infection prevention and control in general practices and clinics. It is specialised clothing and equipment worn to minimise exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses.
Healthcare professionals are frequently exposed to potentially infectious sources and material, making proper PPE use critical for both patient and staff safety.[1]
Types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE includes gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection or any wearable material that creates a barrier that reduces the spread of harmful pathogens.
- Gloves: Protect hands from contamination and reduce the spread of pathogens
- Masks and Respirators: Prevent the inhalation of airborne particles and droplets that may contain infectious agents
- Protective Eyewear: Shields eyes from splashes, sprays, and other potential hazards
- Face Shields: Provide additional protection for the face and mucous membranes
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Gowns and Aprons: Provides a barrier against bodily fluids and other contaminants
Best Practices for PPE Usage in Healthcare Settings
1. Use the Right PPE for Each Situation
Selecting the appropriate PPE depends on the level of risk and the type of patient interaction. For routine examinations, a surgical mask and gloves may be sufficient, whereas high-risk procedures, such as wound care or aerosol-generating treatments, may require a gown, face shield, and N95 respirator.
Using inadequate PPE can leave healthcare workers vulnerable, while overuse may lead to unnecessary costs and supply shortages.
2. Follow Proper Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is a critical step in infection control and must be performed before donning and after removing PPE to prevent the spread of contaminants.[2] Before putting on PPE, healthcare professionals should thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to eliminate any harmful pathogens.
After removing PPE, especially gloves, ands should be washed using proper technique, cleaning the back of hands, fingertips, and under nails.
3. Correct PPE Donning and Doffing Procedures
Touching the outside of gloves, masks, or gowns can lead to contamination. If adjustments are necessary, perform hand hygiene before and after.
Donning Procedures
- Wear a gown first
- Put on a mask or respirator
- Wear protective eyewear or face shield
- Put on gloves last
Doffing Procedures
- Remove gloves first
- Take off eyewear or face shield
- Remove the gown carefully
- Take off the mask/respirator last
4. Proper PPE Disposal and Reuse
Single-use PPE items like gloves, masks, gowns, and disposable eye protection should never be reused and must be disposed of after each use. Used PPE should be discarded in designated biohazard containers.
Reusable PPE items like face shields, goggles, and some types of respirators should be cleaned and disinfected for reuse.
Making Your Clinic a Safer Environment
Common PPE mistakes can compromise its effectiveness and increase the risk of infection. PPE that doesn't fit properly can leave gaps and expose the wearer to contamination. Take the time to properly put on PPE.
By adhering to strict PPE protocols [3], medical facilities can create a safer environment for everyone. It is a critical tool for infection control in general practices and clinics and regular training ensures that healthcare workers follow infection prevention protocols correctly.
Keep your team safe and ensure a readily-available supply of PPE by exploring Medilogic's range of infection prevention supplies.
References
[1] Hoffman, T., et al. (2020). The Role of Personal Protective Equipment in Infection Control. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.
[2] Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. (2021). Infection Prevention and Control. Retrieved from ACSQHC Website.
[3] Barratt R, Shaban RZ, Gilbert GL. (2020). Characteristics of personal protective equipment training programs in Australia and New Zealand hospitals: A survey. Infect Dis Health.
