Donning and Doffing PPE

PPE and good personal hygiene is an essential part of good infection prevention and control. At this time due to COVID 19, it is vital to acquire PPE supplies.

Pre-donning prerequisites

• This should be undertaken outside the patient’s room
• Need to be hydrated
• Need to tie hair back
• Need to remove jewelry
• Ensure that correct size PPE is available

Donning PPE

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Dry your hands with disposable towels
• Use an antibacterial hand sanitiser with alcohol
• Put on apron and secure in place
• Apply mask ensuring strings fit, mouth and nose are fully covered
• Put on gloves making sure of a good fit

How to wear a mask

• Wear it with the coloured side out
• Ensure it covers the mouth & close fully
• Tie the strap around your head or over the ear
• Use two fingers to press the concealed wire down to fit the shape of your nose

Doffing PPE

Before leaving the patients room, PPE removal is essential. Be cautious while removing PPE so that it will not cause any cross-contamination. Your mask must be removed when you are outside the patient’s room. If you need to leave the room ensure that you leave yourself enough time to doff the PPE appropriately. It should not be rushed.

• Pull gloves downwards from the inside out
• Remove apron by rolling from the inside out, top to bottom
• Remove mask by holding strings only
• Wash your hands with soap and water and dry with disposable towels
• Use antibacterial hand sanitizer

For more guidance on donning and doffing PPE, you can check the video demonstration here