Winneshiek County Memorial Hospital recently issued the following announcement.
With the recent changes to our safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines, you may have a few lingering questions, and we’re here to help.
What is a medical-grade mask?
A medical-grade mask (sometimes called a surgical mask) is a disposable mask, often found in blue and yellow colors.
They’re meant to protect the mask wearer from respiratory droplets and sprays that may contain germs. They are also meant to prevent your respiratory aerosols and droplets from contacting others. So, you are wearing your mask both to protect yourself and to protect those around you.
Review UI Health Care’s safety and PPE guidance.
Where can I get a medical-grade mask?
Medical-grade face masks are available at all entrances/exits of UI Health Care facilities.
Units may also order these masks by calling Material Services Processed Stores at 319-356-1784.
Several types and models of masks are available in Hospital Stores. You can order them by using the details below:
PS#158808 Mask Isolation Yellow
PS#156291 Mask Isolation Blue
PS#156341 Mask KN95
How do I get KN95 masks?
Employees who prefer KN95s mask can order these by calling Material Services Processed Stores at 319-356-1784.
How often should I change my medical-grade mask?
A medical-grade mask should be changed at least daily, and whenever they are soiled or damaged. During patient care activities, change your mask after the care of any patient who is in isolation.
Why can’t I wear a cloth mask?
Cloth masks are not as effective as medical-grade masks at protecting the wearer, and those around them, from respiratory droplets and sprays that may contain germs
Cloth masks can only be worn inside UI Health Care facilities if worn in addition to a medical-grade mask.
Are KN95 masks better than a medical-grade mask?
We consider KN95 masks to be equivalent to the standard medical-grade mask option, since they cannot be fit-tested to the wearer. An easy way to remember this is if a medical mask has ear loops, it is not a respirator.
Fit-tested N95 respirators, however, provide respirator-level protection, which is why they are used during the care of patients undergoing an aerosol generating procedure (AGP) and patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19. Employees who wish to use an N95 respirator at other times may do so, but it is not required.
Should I wear eye protection?
Eye protection is recommended by the CDC during patient care.
Check out our employee scenarios below to understand the best PPE to wear based on your role.
All examples below demonstrate appropriate PPE usage.
Renata Sanchez is a communication specialist. Her work directly supports patient care operations. She wears a medical-grade face mask at work.
Travis Sternberg is a clerk on a unit. He wears a KN95, which is also considered to be a medical-grade mask, while at work.
Whitney Gunderson is a nurse. She wears a medical-grade mask at work. In addition, when caring for patients, she wears eye protection. When caring for a patient who has confirmed or suspected COVID-19, she wears a N95 mask and eye protection (in addition to a gown and gloves).
Original source can be found here.
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