Personal protective equipment

Disposable Gloves must be:

• worn when exposure to blood and body fluids is anticipated or likely
• changed for each person you are caring for, and each new task
• changed if torn or puncture is suspected
• appropriate for use and well fitting, fit for purpose and not interfere with dexterity.

NOTE: Jewellery must not be worn under gloves (a single plain metal finger ring is permitted). NEVER carry gloves in your pocket, wash gloves or reuse disposable gloves. Hands must be washed after removal of gloves.

The correct procedure to remove gloves is to:

• grasp the outside of the glove with the opposite gloved hand; peel off
• hold the removed glove in the gloved hand
• slide the fingers of the ungloved hand under the remaining glove at the wrist
• peel the second glove off over the first glove
• ensure safe disposal in waste bag/bin.

Aprons should be worn to protect your uniform or clothes when contamination is anticipated/likely, e.g., when in direct contact with a person you are caring for. As with disposable gloves, aprons should be changed for each person you are caring for and each new task.

You should always assume your worn apron is contaminated and remove safely by:

• unfasten or break ties
• touching only the inside of the apron, pull the apron away from neck and shoulders
• fold or roll into a bundle
• ensure safe disposal in waste bag/bin
• perform hand hygiene.

They must not be obstructed by accessories such as piercings/false eyelashes. Remove at the end of procedure/task and disposed of if single use, or decontaminated after use if reusable.

NOTE: Regular corrective spectacles are not considered eye protection. For further information on eye/face protection refer to local policy.