Archive for the “PPE” category
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.
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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?
Do we have to wear PPE all the time on inpatient wards?
No, please maintain social distancing and only wear PPE if likely to be within 2 metres of service users for anything other than a brief encounter.
Read more [Continue reading] Do we have to wear PPE all the time on inpatient wards?
Do we have to change PPE after every contact with a patient who has tested positive for Covid-19?
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 …
Do ward orderlies, domestic and portering staff need to change PPE each time they go to a new ward?
Moving between wards would be classed as the end of a session and therefore new PPE should be applied if social distancing of 2 metres is not possible or when the individual is required to be within 2 metres of any service users.
Do staff have to wear full PPE supporting patients taking 1 hour exercise out of the grounds in the local area?
No.
Feedback from clinicians is that in children’s services, staff wearing full PPE may be problematic and distressing. What can be done about this?
Services must undertake an individual risk assessment if there is any deviation from Trust policy. The decision to deviate must be documented with clear rationale explaining why wearing full PPE is clinically detrimental to the service user, e.g. causing unnecessary distress, breakdown of therapeutic relationship. …
Should we wear PPE to do routine observation checks on a ward where we may pass people in the corridor (may not be 2 metres apart) or if a service user may unexpectedly approach us?
No, there is no need to wear PPE unless you are unable to maintain a 2 metre distance. Staff should not remain within 2 metres of another person for any longer than necessary without PPE. Staff should withdraw and wash their hands ASAP, and the …
Should we be moving between Covid-19 positive and Covid-19 negative service users?
Where possible, ensure that positive service users are cared for after non positive persons. However, social distancing and where necessary, the appropriate use of PPE will significantly reduce the risk of cross infection.