Archive for the “PPE” category
I am a member of therapy staff who covers several wards within a unit. Do I need to change my PPE every time I enter a different ward, even if not having had physical intervention with a service user?
Yes, PPE should be discarded safely in between different ward areas.
Do you need to change your PPE mask every time you answer the telephone / take a drink? Guidance says we should drink regularly to keep our throats moist.
Regular breaks should be factored into shifts in order for staff to have a drink. This would signify the end of the session and therefore PPE will be changed at this point. Drinks should not be taken whilst wearing PPE. Social distancing should be maintained …
Is the PPE guidance for all Trust staff or just inpatient staff?
The guidance is for all Trust staff.
Read more [Continue reading] Is the PPE guidance for all Trust staff or just inpatient staff?
Will some parts of the ward be less of a risk than others?
Bedrooms are more likely to contain a high viral load as service users are spending lots of time in there sleeping or isolating and if they have the virus, this is where it is most likely being shed. PPE (mask, gloves and apron) should be …
Read more [Continue reading] Will some parts of the ward be less of a risk than others?
I am a member of facilities staff delivering post / medication etc. Should I put full PPE on to enter the unit?
No, you should maintain social distancing of more than 2 metres away from service users and staff.
When administering medication do you need to change gloves and aprons for each service user?
Gloves and aprons should be changed between service users if that individual has to be touched in order for administration of medication, such as for performing injections or placing medications into a person’s mouth. This is not necessary for providing tablets or other medication in …
Will changing PPE in an emergency delay the response to incidents?
It is possible, so the decision to respond with or without a change of PPE must be based on assessment of the risks at the time. Please contact the RRPI team for further information.
Read more [Continue reading] Will changing PPE in an emergency delay the response to incidents?
I move between an inpatient unit and an annexed flat in the grounds to deliver care to patients. Should I change my PPE or clothing?
PPE should be changed. However, clothing changes are not required if entering directly into another Trust building without leaving the grounds.
Do the domestic / housekeeping team get their PPE from the wards?
Yes. The PPE on the wards is for all staff who require it in that area.
Read more [Continue reading] Do the domestic / housekeeping team get their PPE from the wards?
Full physical observations are taken every day or week for every service user. Is a full change of PPE required between every person?
The Trust PPE guidance should be followed and gloves and apron should be changed between different people but the mask can be used on a sessional basis. Personalised care should be undertaken wherever possible where monitoring physical observations for individuals can be completed at the …