The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide specific guidelines for the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, patients, and the general public. According to the CDC, PPE is designed to protect the wearer from getting infected and prevent the spread of infections or illnesses.
The CDC recommends wearing gloves when it is likely that hands will be in contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials, mucous membranes, non-intact skin, or potentially contaminated equipment or surfaces.
They also advise the use of gowns, which should fully cover the torso, fit comfortably, and cover the arms and legs to the level of the boot top or shoe top.
When it comes to respiratory protection, the CDC recommends using N95 respirators or higher level of protection when aerosol-generating procedures are performed.
Eye protection, such as goggles or face shields, is recommended during procedures that are likely to generate splashes or sprays of blood, body fluids, secretions, or excretions.
The CDC also emphasizes that PPE must be properly cleaned, decontaminated, and maintained. Training for the effective use of PPE includes understanding when to use it, what PPE is necessary, how to wear it, how to adjust it, and how to safely remove and dispose of it.
It's important to note that these guidelines are subject to change as new information about COVID-19 or other infectious diseases becomes available. Always refer to the latest CDC guidelines for the most accurate information.