NREMT EMT 1: Scene Size-Up and Safety - Personal Protective Equipment, PPE Selection and Use

What This Is: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Selection and Use

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is gear that helps prevent the spread of germs and diseases when treating patients. Think of it like wearing a mask to prevent getting sick when you're around someone who's coughing. In real life, PPE matters when treating patients with contagious illnesses like COVID-19 or when working with bodily fluids like blood.

Key Steps / Core Facts

• PPE types: Different types of PPE include masks, gloves, gowns, eye protection, and face shields. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Each type of PPE protects against different types of exposure.
  • Example: A mask protects against airborne pathogens, while gloves protect against bodily fluids.
• PPE selection: Choose PPE based on the patient's condition and the level of exposure risk. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Using the right PPE reduces the risk of infection.
  • Example: Use a gown and gloves when treating a patient with a contagious skin infection.
• PPE fit: Ensure PPE fits properly to prevent gaps and exposure. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Proper fit prevents exposure to germs and diseases.
  • Example: Make sure the mask covers your nose and mouth, and the gloves fit snugly on your hands.
• PPE disposal: Dispose of PPE properly after use to prevent cross-contamination. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Improper disposal can spread germs and diseases.
  • Example: Tie off gloves and dispose of them in a biohazard bag.
• PPE inspection: Regularly inspect PPE for damage and wear. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Damaged PPE can provide inadequate protection.
  • Example: Check for tears, holes, or broken straps on gloves and masks.
• PPE donning and doffing: Follow proper procedures for putting on and taking off PPE. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Improper donning and doffing can expose you to germs and diseases.
  • Example: Put on gloves before putting on a gown, and take off gloves before taking off the gown.
• PPE use: Use PPE for the entire patient encounter, from initial contact to disposal. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Using PPE for the entire encounter reduces the risk of exposure.
  • Example: Use PPE from the moment you enter the patient's room to the moment you leave.
• PPE removal: Remove PPE properly after use to prevent cross-contamination. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Improper removal can spread germs and diseases.
  • Example: Remove gloves and then the gown, and dispose of them properly.
• PPE storage: Store PPE properly after use to maintain its effectiveness. (OSHA, CDC)
  • Why it matters: Improper storage can damage PPE and reduce its effectiveness.
  • Example: Store PPE in a clean, dry area away from direct sunlight.

What Laypeople Can Do

• Check for PPE: If you're a bystander, check if the EMTs or medical professionals are wearing PPE. If not, ask them to put it on.
• Ask about PPE: If you're a patient or family member, ask the medical professionals about their PPE and why they're using it.
• Dispose of PPE: If you're disposing of PPE, make sure to tie off gloves and dispose of them in a biohazard bag.
• Report PPE issues: If you notice any issues with PPE, such as damaged or missing equipment, report it to the medical professionals or facility management.
• Follow PPE protocols: If you're working in a healthcare setting, follow the established PPE protocols and procedures.

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Not using PPE when treating a patient with a contagious illness.
  • Fix: Use PPE to prevent exposure to germs and diseases.
• Mistake: Not inspecting PPE for damage and wear.
  • Fix: Regularly inspect PPE to ensure it provides adequate protection.
• Mistake: Not removing PPE properly after use.
  • Fix: Remove PPE properly to prevent cross-contamination.
• Mistake: Not storing PPE properly after use.
  • Fix: Store PPE properly to maintain its effectiveness.
• Mistake: Using damaged or expired PPE.
  • Fix: Use new, undamaged PPE to ensure adequate protection.

Quick Practice Scenarios

1. You're an EMT responding to a call about a patient with a suspected contagious illness. What should you do first?

Answer: Put on PPE, including a mask, gloves, and gown, to prevent exposure to germs and diseases. Reason: Using PPE reduces the risk of infection and protects yourself and others.

1. You're a nurse working in a hospital and notice that a patient's PPE is damaged. What should you do first?

Answer: Report the issue to the facility management or supervisor. Reason: Reporting the issue ensures that the patient receives adequate protection and that the PPE is replaced or repaired.

1. You're a bystander who witnesses an EMT treating a patient with a contagious illness. What should you do first?

Answer: Ask the EMT if they're wearing PPE and if not, ask them to put it on. Reason: Ensuring the EMTs use PPE reduces the risk of exposure to germs and diseases.

Last-Minute Exam Cram

• Normal body temperature: 98.6°F (37°C)
• Normal blood pressure: 120/80 mmHg
• Normal heart rate: 60-100 beats per minute
• Normal respiratory rate: 12-20 breaths per minute
• PPE hierarchy: gloves, gown, mask, eye protection, face shield
• PPE donning sequence: gloves, gown, mask, eye protection, face shield
• PPE doffing sequence: face shield, eye protection, mask, gown, gloves
• PPE storage: clean, dry area away from direct sunlight
• PPE disposal: biohazard bag, tied off gloves
• Agonal breathing is NOT normal breathing – start CPR
• Use PPE for the entire patient encounter, from initial contact to disposal
• Remove PPE properly after use to prevent cross-contamination