AN INSIGHT INTO THE QUARANTINE PROCESS: CONSUMABLES AND GARMENTS
Quarantine is a form of disease control. It is used to restrict the movement of individuals who may have been exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become ill. Usually in quarantine, individuals are not allowed to come in close contact with others to restrict the spread of the virus. Although what if they need to be medically assessed? How can medical personal protect themselves while still being able to do their job?
Strategies to minimise the spread of infection include hand hygiene, personal protective equipment and cleaning. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can protect health care workers from exposure to blood or bodily substances that may be harmful.
Masks, Eye Protection and Face Shields – should be worn if there is going to be a risk of bodily fluids being splashed onto the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth, or high risk of contamination within your environment. Suitable eye protection (safety goggles) and face shields should cover the entire face (if protection of the mouth and nose is required) and be immediately changed if its visibly soiled. Take extra caution when removing masks, eye protection and face shields to avoid touching any contaminated surfaces and dispose appropriately.
Gloves – should not be considered an alternative to washing hands. It is highly recommended that hands are thoroughly washed and dried before and after using gloves. Gloves should be worn when there is a likelihood of coming in contact with blood, body fluids/substances, mucous membranes or non-intact skin, or high risk of contamination within your environment. The choice of length of the gloves, as well as the material of the gloves, should be carefully considered.
Garments – protective garments should be worn to protect healthcare workers and medical personnel’s uniform and skin from moisture or soiling during direct patient care. CRG provide a range of garment styles including; coveralls, smocks, gowns, under garments, hoods, aprons and overshoes, which CRG process and sterilise, disposable garments are also available. It is important to follow correct ‘donning’ and ‘doffing’ procedures to minimise any risk of contamination.
