Researchers describe a protocol for donning and doffing personal protective equipment in home settings for health care professionals who must interact with patients potentially infected with COVID-19. This protocol addresses gaps in COVID-19 related guidelines, specifically the process of donning and doffing PPE during home visits while supplementing PPE guidelines and protocols. To create the protocol, the researchers used an interactive, rapid-prototyping approach. A small workgroup created preliminary drafts, drawing upon hospital-based protocols and modifying them while undertaking simulations. They received wider input by conducting two webinars — one regional in the Hamilton, Ontario, Canada area with palliative clinicians and another that included clinicians from across Canada. Researchers also consulted a group of infectious disease experts. Additionally, the team created a “how to” video to accompany the protocol, which includes guidance on how to prepare for a home visit; entering the home; leaving the home; post-visit and reprocessing. In addition to PPE-related equipment like gloves and surgical masks, the protocol also recommends additional materials including two pails for transporting supplies, plastic bags, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and printed, easy-to-use checklists. To view the “how to” video, click here.
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COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment in the Home: Navigating the Complexity of Donning and Doffing
José Pereira, MBChB, CCFP (PC), MSc, FCFP
Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, and Pallium Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
https://www.annfammed.org/content/19/5/405
Journal
The Annals of Family Medicine