Strategies for Rational Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Among Healthcare Providers During the COVID-19 Crisis

Abstract

As the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) began spreading globally with no clear treatment in sight, prevention became a major part of controlling the disease and its effects. COVID-19 spreads from the aerosols of an infected individual whether they are showing any symptoms or not. Therefore, it becomes nearly impossible to point exactly where the patient is. This is where personal protective equipment (PPE) comes in. These are masks, respirators, gloves, and in hospitals where the contact with the infected and confirmed patient is direct, also gowns or body covers. The PPEs play a major role in the prevention and control of the COVID-19. The PPE is able to prevent any invasion of the virus particles into the system of an individual which is why it is an essential item to have for healthcare workers. Due to the high demand for PPEs all around the world, it is important to optimize the use of protective gear and ration the supplies so that the demand are met. However, there are guidelines recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to maintain the supply in the wake of this increased demand of PPE, how the manufacturers should track their supplies, and how the recipients should manage them. Various strategies can be used to increase the re-use of PPEs during the COVID-19 pandemic that has modified the donning and doffing procedure.

Difficulties Encountered While Using PPE Kits and How to Overcome Them: An Indian Perspective

“…This was probably due to the fact that they had conducted the survey in the initial phase of the pandemic when it had just set in and the healthcare infrastructure was undergoing the process of upgradation in response to the disease onslaught. To address the shortage of supply chain, health administrators have resorted to increasing production, rationing, using the type of PPEs as per the level of protection required in particular hospital areas, do-it-yourself (DIY) measures, reuse after ultra-violet C germicidal irradiation (UVGI), gamma or X-ray irradiation methods of sterilisation without affecting the efficacy, usage of improvised surgical gowns that can be washed, autoclaved and augmented with disposable aprons, surgical caps, shoe covers, etc [6,[17][18]. However, different sterilisation methods have various limitations, which can affect widespread use [19].…”

“…It is important to carefully select the adequate PPE to protect the skin, eyes, face, nose, mouth, hands, feet, head, and other parts of the body, so as to provide protection and act as an effective barrier between the HCW and the contaminated materials like blood, body fluids, respiratory secretions, and aerosols. The PPE usually comprises protective clothing, helmets, goggles, shoe covers, and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) [6]. Proper instructions, training, and supervision are required to ensure that the PPE is properly used and adequated protection is gained.…”

<p>Perceived Barriers and Preventive Measures of COVID-19 Among Healthcare Providers in Debretabor, North Central Ethiopia, 2020</p>

“…Infection prevention could be the primary focus during pandemic season, even if facing a shortage of resources. This could be alleviated by rational use and successful reuse of PPE; 31,32 improving the logistics of PPE distribution to wards; maintaining written PPE use protocols; and providing structured donning and doffing training with practical simulation; 11,33,34 improving knowledge; positive attitudes and practices 35 hopefully can control the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess perceived barriers and preventive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare professionals at South Gondar zone, North Central Ethiopia.…”

An overview of basics for developing a reopening roadmap amid COVID-19 pandemic, a suggestion for the world

“…The preventive capacity consists of optimizing the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), especially for those at high risk and those on the front line (29,30). Furthermore, there should be the capacity to implement protocols ensuring appropriate safeguards for each sector reopened.…”