CDC issues new guidelines for treating Ebola patients

 

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