The evolving guidelines from the CDC on the management of Ebola patients contain solid information that health care providers should heed when dealing with any contagious situation.
Highlights include:
- Make sure that respiratory protective equipment such as N95 or P100 masks are tightly fitted against the face.
- Double glove while in full protective gear to allow for more effective doffing procedures.
- Proper PPE removal is just as important as putting it on.
- A supervisor to watch donning or doffing PPE provides an extra checkpoint to ensure every step is appropriately taken.
- PPE proficiency through training and practice is required before treating infected patients.
However, the guidelines also raise specific questions about the availability of appropriate PPE for EMS providers:
- Has the equipment been specifically made for folks who have to climb stairs or lift heavy equipment, or has been modified from PPE made for hospital personnel?
- How will the delay in transport caused by doffing procedures be seen in the treatment of a patient in extremis?
- Do EMS systems have the equipment, location and trained personnel to properly decontaminate an ambulance after a significant exposure?
It would be of great assistance if our federal EMS experts could provide more specific guidance in these areas.
