Although the medical industry and related fields have always had high standards for maintaining healthy and clean environments, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought awareness to the forefront. Today, people wear masks, carry hand sanitizer, and avoid places that don’t take every effort to be clean. As a result, a full array of options have become available for providers to maintain a clean and safe environment. Personal protection equipment, commonly referred to as PPE, encompasses healthcare apparel, sanitization equipment, disinfecting supplies, and diagnostic tools to protect both patients and therapists.
Protective apparel such as face masks, shields, and exam gloves, are worn as a barrier between two people. PPE can also refer to the cleaning supplies necessary to kill germs including hospital-grade disinfectants, sanitizers, and wipes. Other products like sanitization equipment including air purifiers and ultraviolet sanitizers for tools are also effective in minimizing the spread of germs and bacteria. Finally, every exam room should use single-use, disposable table covers and change them between patients. Minimizing unnecessary contact with potentially harmful microbes is an essential piece of your multi-level sanitation plan.