Protect yourself. Protect your patients. Prevent infection.
What is considered a “procedure”?
Any activity involving patient care, specimen handling, cleaning or waste disposal that may expose staff to infectious materials.
When should I assess the need for PPE?
Before every patient interaction or procedure; especially those involving potential exposure to blood, body fluids or non-intact skin.
What PPE should I wear for low-risk procedures?
For minimal exposure risk (e.g. taking vital signs), gloves may be sufficient. Always assess the situation and follow local guidance.
When is full PPE required?
Use full PPE (gloves, gown/apron, mask, eye protection) when there’s a risk of splashes, sprays, or contact with blood/body fluids; such as wound care or suctioning.
Is PPE needed for contact with intact skin?
If there’s no risk of fluids or contamination, PPE may not be necessary. However, gloves are recommended if there’s any uncertainty.
What does “adequate protection” mean?
PPE must match the level of risk. For example, a surgical mask may not be sufficient during aerosol-generating procedures; a respirator may be required.
What types of PPE might be required?
Depending on the procedure:
- Gloves – for contact with blood/body fluids or mucous membranes
- Aprons/gowns – for splash or contamination risk
- Masks/respirators – for airborne or droplet precautions
- Eye protection – for risk of splashes to the face
What if I’m unsure which PPE to use?
Consult your local PPE guidance or speak with your IPC lead/link practitioner. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Is PPE always necessary?
Not always; but if there’s any risk of exposure, it must be used. PPE should be based on a risk assessment, not worn routinely.
Can I reuse PPE between patients?
No. PPE is single use unless specifically designed for reuse and decontaminated according to protocol.
What should I do if PPE is unavailable or defective?
Report it immediately to your supervisor or IPC team. Never proceed with a procedure without adequate protection.
How does PPE fit into overall infection prevention and control
It’s one part of the standard infection control precautions (SICPs) used alongside hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, equipment decontamination, safe management of waste and safe sharps disposal to minimise the risks of healthcare acquired infections (HCAIs).
Who decides what PPE is appropriate?
Staff should perform a risk assessment before each procedure. When in doubt, consult your IPC lead/link practitioner.
What if PPE is unavailable or in short supply?
Report it immediately to your supervisor. Never proceed with a high-risk procedure without proper protection.
What should I do if I see someone not wearing PPE correctly
Address it respectfully or report it. PPE misuse puts everyone at risk.