Archive for the “PPE” category
Can I refuse to undertake a task if I do not have the correct PPE?
Under health and safety regulations where identified by specialist advisors the Trust should provide PPE. The Trust should also provide guidance on the different scenarios of when different types of PPE should be used. A member of staff can refuse to carry out a duty …
Read more [Continue reading] Can I refuse to undertake a task if I do not have the correct PPE?
When in the community, do we change full PPE between residents, but leave our mask on? Or do we just use the same kit for all patients?
Use of the mask will be sessional in this instance. However, the apron and gloves should be changed between service users to reduce the risk of cross infection of all healthcare associated infections. A session refers to a period of time where the staff member …
How long does each item of PPE last before needing to be changed?
During sessional use, masks should be changed when they become moist. This length of time will be different for each individual. Aprons and gloves do not have a specific duration before they should be changed when not in direct contact with service users. It is …
Read more [Continue reading] How long does each item of PPE last before needing to be changed?
We have experienced some distress from service users when wearing PPE. Do we need to wear it all the time?
No, there is information available on the intranet for service users. Please maintain social distancing to reduce the amount of times that PPE is required.
Will the Trust be providing visors for community teams when we visit violent/aggressive patients for Mental Health Act assessments?
We provide visors for community staff in these situations. We are also looking at using goggles.
How long does it take to catch Covid-19 if you are wearing PPE (mask, apron and gloves) within 2 metres of somebody confirmed as positive?
The use of appropriate PPE will reduce the risk of cross infection. However, this should only be used when a 2 metre social distance cannot be maintained.
Do we have to change PPE after every contact with a patient?
Aprons and gloves should be changed between every physical contact with a service user. Masks can be maintained for sessional use unless the service user is a confirmed case, in which case they should also be changed when not working on a cohort ward. If …
Read more [Continue reading] Do we have to change PPE after every contact with a patient?
Staff have expressed concern that if they wear a lot of PPE it will run out very quickly. Can we guarantee this won’t be the case?
PPE is provided on the basis of need and consistent with national guidance. Following the Trust guidance will reduce the risk of unnecessary and inappropriate use of PPE.
Do we have any materials to explain the PPE guidance to service users?
An easy read PPE leaflet for service users is available on the Trust coronavirus intranet pages.
Read more [Continue reading] Do we have any materials to explain the PPE guidance to service users?
How long does fluid resistance last in a mask?
Follow the supplier’s advice which is usually a full clinical shift however if it becomes damp or uncomfortable it needs to be changed. We don’t expect anyone to keep the same mask on for 12 hours as people will need to take comfort breaks which …
Read more [Continue reading] How long does fluid resistance last in a mask?