The answer is No.
How many times do you just need to silence the beeping pump, or quickly get a blood pressure? Not including all the other “right quick” tasks that may be needed in that patient’s room throughout the day. However, wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not a suggestion. It is essential for healthcare workers to protect themselves, their colleagues, and other patients from exposure to transmittable diseases.
What is PPE?
There are many different types, including gloves, gowns, masks, face shields, eye wear, and other protective materials. The type of PPE that is required will vary depending on the type of procedure being performed and the risk of exposure to infectious pathogens, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials.
It is important to use PPE correctly (donning) and to dispose of it properly after use (doffing). Healthcare workers should also be trained on how to use PPE safely and effectively. Do not walk in the halls with PPE on. Even if it is clean, it gives off the perception that it might not be. My most experienced nurses know to “cluster” their care in isolated rooms, but it’s the getting stuck in our ways that is not always the best way and can cause the most harm.
Here’s the bottom line, PPE:
- Protects you from exposure to blood-borne pathogens, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials.
- Protects patients from becoming infected by healthcare workers (Immunosuppressed Patients).
- Helps to prevent the spread of infection, reducing healthcare cost, and improving patient safety.
It is important to note that just like birth control, PPE is not 100% effective in preventing exposure to infectious diseases. However, it is an important part of infection control and can help to reduce the risk of exposure and transmission of diseases.
For more information on PPE, please visit the cdc.gov website.
Transmission-Based Precautions | Basics | Infection Control | CDC”
Isolation Precautions | Guidelines Library | Infection Control | CDC