Infection Control and PPE

Study Notes

PPE Selection Criteria

Risk assessment: Identify the type of exposure and level of risk to determine the appropriate PPE.
Task-specific: Choose PPE that is specific to the task or procedure being performed.
Pathogen-specific: Select PPE that is effective against the specific pathogen or type of transmission.
Fit and comfort: Ensure PPE fits comfortably and does not hinder movement or vision.
Level of protection: Consider the level of protection required, such as splash resistance, impermeability, or filtering.

Donning and Doffing Procedures

Donning:
- Perform hand hygiene before putting on PPE.
- Put on PPE in the correct order (e.g., gown, mask, gloves).
- Ensure PPE is properly fitted and secured.
Doffing:
- Remove PPE in the correct order (e.g., gloves, gown, mask).
- Perform hand hygiene immediately after removing PPE.
- Dispose of PPE properly.

PPE for Airborne Transmission

Respiratory protection: Use N95 or higher-level respirators to filter out airborne pathogens.
Face shields and masks: Use face shields and masks to protect against splashes and sprays.
Airborne transmission risks: Consider the risk of airborne transmission when selecting PPE, such as in cases of tuberculosis or influenza.

Hand Hygiene Practices

When to perform hand hygiene:
- Before and after patient contact.
- Before and after putting on and removing PPE.
- After contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.
Proper hand hygiene technique:
- Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Rub hands together for at least 20 seconds.
- Pay attention to areas between fingers, under nails, and wrists.

Decontamination and Sterilization

Decontamination: Remove or reduce the number of pathogens on a surface or item using methods such as disinfection or cleaning.
Sterilization: Completely eliminate all pathogens on a surface or item using methods such as autoclaving or dry heat.
PPE decontamination and sterilization:
- Follow manufacturer's instructions for decontamination and sterilization of PPE.
- Consider the type of PPE and the level of risk when determining the need for decontamination and sterilization.

Description

Test your knowledge on the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection control practices, including risk assessment, donning and doffing procedures, and decontamination and sterilization methods.