Donning and Doffing PPE: HCID Level One Full Barrier Isolation

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide for donning (putting on) and doffing (removing) personal protective equipment (PPE) for HCID Level One Full Barrier Isolation. Proper use of PPE is crucial in healthcare settings, especially when dealing with high consequence infectious diseases. Following these steps will help ensure your safety and the safety of others.

Step 1: Gather Your PPE

Before starting, ensure you have all necessary PPE items at hand:

• Gloves
• Gown
• Face shield or goggles
• Surgical mask or N95 respirator
• Boot covers (if applicable)

Practical Advice

• Check for any damage or tears in the PPE before use.
• Ensure you have a waste disposal bag nearby for used PPE.

Step 2: Donning PPE

Follow these steps to properly put on your PPE:

1. Wash Your Hands

   • Use soap and water or hand sanitizer.

2. Put on the Gown

   • Open the gown and hold it by the neck ties.
   • Slip your arms into the sleeves and secure it at the back.

3. Put on the Mask

   • If using a surgical mask, place it over your nose and mouth, securing it behind your ears.
   • For an N95 respirator, ensure a snug fit around your face.

4. Put on the Face Shield or Goggles

   • Adjust the face shield or goggles to ensure they fit securely and cover your eyes.

5. Put on Gloves

   • Choose the correct size and put them on last.
   • Ensure the gloves cover the gown cuffs.

Practical Advice

• Avoid touching your face while donning.
• Ensure that the PPE is secure and fits properly to prevent exposure.

Step 3: Entering the Isolation Area

Once fully donned, you can safely enter the isolation area.

Practical Advice

• Always follow facility protocols when entering and exiting isolation zones.
• Be aware of your surroundings and any additional safety measures in place.

Step 4: Doffing PPE

Carefully remove your PPE in the following order to minimize contamination:

1. Remove Gloves

   • Grasp the outside of one glove with the opposite hand and peel it off.
   • Hold the removed glove in the gloved hand and use the ungloved hand to peel off the second glove.

2. Dispose of Gloves

   • Place the gloves in the waste disposal bag.

3. Remove Face Shield or Goggles

   • Handle by the strap and lift away from your face.

4. Remove Gown

   • Untie the gown and pull it away from your body, turning it inside out as you remove it.

5. Remove Mask

   • Grasp the ear loops or ties and remove without touching the front of the mask.

Practical Advice

• Perform hand hygiene after each step of doffing.
• Always dispose of PPE in the designated waste areas.

Conclusion

Proper donning and doffing of PPE are essential for protecting against high consequence infectious diseases. By following these steps, you ensure not only your safety but also the safety of others in healthcare settings. For more information and resources, visit the MDH High Consequence Infectious Disease Toolbox linked in the video description. Stay informed and always adhere to your facility's guidelines for PPE use.