The following contains some information from the field.

The information surrounding personal protective equipment (PPE) is varied and ever-changing as knowledge of the virus evolves. PPE recommendations will also vary based on job function, location, facility policy, and available supply. Ideally, healthcare workers will wear a fit-tested N95 mask or powered, air-purifying respirator (PAPR) when they are working within a 6-foot radius of COVID-19-positive patients. Additional PPE, as indicated, includes face shields, shoe covers, and hair covers/bouffant caps, fluid-resistant gowns, and gloves (NIH, 2020). 

Even the N95 respirator mask is not 100% protective (the N95 filters out particles >0.3 microns, whereas COVID-19 is a 0.125-micron virus size), so it is important to utilize both engineering and administrative protection to the greatest extent possible. Surgical masks are indicated as PPE against COVID-19 as they offer some protection against the virus; the application of a surgical mask over an N95 mask reduces the risk of N95 mask soiling (NIH, 2020). 

Extension and reuse practices should be implemented to combat the shortage of this protective equipment. N95 respirator masks can safely be disinfected using low-temperature sterilization methods. (Jatta et al., 2020).

References

Required Learning Resources and Activities

Identify recommendations and risks regarding reuse and extended use of facepiece respirators

Summarize surface disinfection measures based on evidence about coronavirus persistence on inanimate surfaces

Implement the five prevention and control strategies when COVID-19 is suspected in clinical cases.

Additional Resources for Optional Learning