PPE/Environmental Control
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I bring my own PPE from home?
Please utilize PPE supplies provided by the hospital as they are designed as PPE. Hospital-provided eyewear does provide a greater area of facial coverage than a majority of personally bought eyewear. Also, by using hospital-provided eyewear, you will be able to reduce the number of steps in doffing and the continuous requirement of disinfecting personal items between COVID and non-COVID patients.
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What about shoe covers or bouffant caps?
Shoe covers and bouffant caps are not recommended at UTMB for PPE use. Incorrect removal of additional PPE may increase the risk of self-contamination if removed incorrectly.
Why no shoe covers: Scrubs can become contaminated while removing shoe covers. If you are concerned about contamination on your shoes, you may use a disinfectant wipe after completing your shift and leave your shoes outside the home and/or separated from other items.
Why no Bouffant caps: Inappropriate removal of the bouffant cap can cause a displacement of eyewear and/or mask which may result in incidental contamination closest to your eyes, nose and mouth.
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If no bouffant caps are permitted, what about the fabric surgical caps?
Shoe covers and bouffant caps are not recommended at UTMB for PPE use. Incorrect removal of additional PPE may increase the risk of self-contamination if removed incorrectly.
Why no shoe covers: Scrubs can become contaminated while removing shoe covers. If you are concerned about contamination on your shoes, you may use a disinfectant wipe after completing your shift and leave your shoes outside the home and/or separated from other items.
Why no Bouffant caps: Inappropriate removal of the bouffant cap can cause a displacement of eyewear and/or mask which may result in incidental contamination closest to your eyes, nose and mouth.
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Donning and Doffing - CDC Sequence
All staff with an N-95 should have a fit test card that identifies exactly which N-95 they are fit tested for. Please always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your personal PPE.