The Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) updated its protocols to better
protect healthcare workers treating Ebola patients, the institute
announced Monday Oct 20,2014
Three
updated guidelines have been established as the United States looks to
be gaining an upper hand on the virus that has infected three and led to
hundreds being put under observation.
The CDC now stipulates that medical personnel coming in contact or treating Ebola patients must cover all skin and hair.
The previous set of guidelines—based on those from the World Health Organization—only required a mask and goggles.
The new guidelines also
require healthcare workers to have hands-on training putting on and
taking off protective equipment and to be supervised while suiting up
before treating a patient.
Personal
protective equipment, or PPE, for treating patients of the virus now
includes a gown or coverall, disposable hoods, a respirator with face
shield, boot covers and double gloves.
The
CDC is strengthening its protocols in the wake of two nurses
contracting the virus, which is spread through direct contact with
bodily fluids and tissue, after treating Thomas Eric Duncan, who died of
the virus on October 8,2014
UPDATED CDC GUIDELINES
Use face shield, gown or coverall, boot cover and double gloves
Wear hood to completely cover the head and neck
Use respirator, not goggles
Put on waterproof apron if patient is vomiting or has diarrhea
Designate area for putting on and taking off gear
Have trained monitor supervise the putting on and removal of gear
Use disinfectant wipes on contaminated gear before removing
Disinfect gloved hands between steps while taking off gear
Conduct repeated training for using protective gear
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