COVID-19 / Coronavirus Outbreak: Donning Personal Protective Equipment Before Entering A Patient Room

Dearest colleagues. We have produced this film in order to highlight several important precautions which must be taken due to the current situation regarding COVID-19. It is of particular importance to clarify the reusage of protective face masks.

Remaining composed, and maintaining concentration is also of high importance. An assistant should observe and assist with the donning procedure of personal protection equipment until you are secure in your ability to carry this out independently. The recommendations in this film are based on international guidelines and recommendations.

They apply solely to COVID-19. Unpack and load the protective glasses on a surface within grabbing distance. Carry out a systematic and thorough hand disinfection.

Use the elbow to attain three squirts of disinfectant and rub this into the hands until dry. Your name, the time, and date should be written on a newly utilized mask. The face mask should be used for one entire work shift.

Now wear the protective gown and fasten both cords. Put on a pair of non-sterile gloves. Ensure these are pulled over and cover the sleeves of the protective gown.

A protective cap can be worn, however this is not obligatory. Now the new and labeled protective mask may be worn. If you have used a mask previously, remove this carefully from the hook and be careful not to touch the potentially contaminated exterior surface.

Next spread apart the elastic straps and place the mask over the mouth and nose, starting from the chin and then upwards. Pull one elastic strap over the ears and one under the ears. Press the metal nose grip to the shape of your nose so that the mask is tight fitting.

Carry out a leak test by breathing out powerfully. Now put on the protective glasses. Do not touch the inner side of the glasses.

Pull the frame gently apart and place the glasses over the ears in an inward direction. Additionally you now have the possibility of wearing a protective face visor. Before we end we have several recommendations.

For invasive procedures, such as intubation or bronchosocpy, an FFP3 masks should be used instead of an FFP2. Please do not touch cabinets, door handles, respirators, PCs, or work surfaces with contaminated hands or gloves. Always remove gloves beforehand and disinfect your hands.

When changing gloves it is also essential to disinfect the hands allowing time for the disinfectant to dry. Always place reusable materials, such as needle holders or clamps, in the white boxes in the room. Thank you very much.