The Importance of PPE and Protocols in Preventing Covid-19 (Essay Sample)

The Importance of PPE and Protocols in Preventing Covid-19 Name Affiliation Date The Importance of PPE and Protocols in Preventing Covid-19 The LTC staff needs to put on full PPE because COVID-19 is both a contact and droplet precaution. According to Iqbal (2021), wearing full PPE, such as an N95 mask, gown, gloves, and face shield, is essential. Also, research shows that hand hygiene can curb the spread of diseases. In my opinion, routine screening and the use of appropriate PPE such as gowns, gloves, masks, and face shields, along with hand hygiene, could curtail or avoid the outbreak. Adopting a consistent staff for isolated residents can help curb the spread of the virus; this way, changes in both client and staff status will be easily detectable. COVID-19 has had a devastating impact, resulting in not only the loss of lives but also significant changes in people's perspectives, lifestyles, and overall health. Reading the article is heartbreaking. I put myself in the shoes of those who lost their loved ones and felt helpless. The article reveals a flaw in the healthcare industry; the long-term care facility was understaffed, and there was a lack of adherence to procedures and policies, particularly concerning the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). I am convinced that we could have prevented some of the fatalities. However, this is an eye-opener for me as I proceed in my career to understand the importance of PPE. According to the case study by Public Health Ontario (2014), the staff member bypassed the COVID-19 screening protocols: 1 If the staff member is someone I can approach politely. Otherwise, I will notify my supervisor or manager about the incident to reinforce the screening process or address the staff member's behavior. Case Note 2 1 Firstly, I will let the client know there is nothing to be embarrassed about and offer the assurance that I am here to help. 2 Secondly, I will procure the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), in this case hand gloves and a gown. Given that this is a contact infection, I will examine the resident's brief to observe the color, consistency, and odour, as cer...