Usage of PPE
It is important to keep any operating room as clean as possible. In healthcare environments, PPE is used to create a buffer between the patients and the healthcare personnel. Most significantly, it prevents pathogens and diseases from spreading. The use of PPE largely depends on the risk assessment conducted prior to the operation. This involves whether body fluids, blood, or infectious agents would be revealed to the surgeon or not.
It is important to remember that visitors will also need to wear protective equipment, particularly if they provide patient care.
Putting on PPE
Bear in mind that you’re likely to be in the room before putting on PPE. During the procedure, the warm air may cause discomfort, so be sure to wear lightweight layers and remain hydrated. If you need, you can also mount prescription glasses to your forehead. In addition, before handling any PPE, always wash your hands. This should be achieved with solution-based alcohol.
In a different space to the operating room, personal protective protection must always be placed. For all times, this room should be extremely clean. Make sure long hair is tied back until you wear all the appropriate PPE and ensure that all jewelry is removed.
The final stage of putting on your PPE should be your surgical mask. Like many other healthcare providers, surgeons conducting cosmetic surgery like breast implants or a tummy tuck are expected to wear such masks. These masks shield the person from droplets across the respiratory tract and act as a barrier. These masks should be removed upon completion of the surgery and not left connected around the neck.
Removing PPE
The removal of PPE may sometimes be the most difficult part since you would want to make sure that you are not exposed to any dangerous equipment that is contaminated. Throughout this process, be very careful. Removal of PPE can take place away in a different location and away from where you first put it in. This area should not be utilized for any other purposes.
For equipment disposal in this space, a leak-proof container should be accessible. There should also be disinfectant pads and an alcohol-based wipe to clean any visible bacteria on your PPE. Use the alcohol rub to disinfect your gloves and dry them before removing them.
There will be a professional observer on hand for the entire removal process to ensure every step is done with extreme care. This individual will have a checklist, looking for any breaches of protocol.
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