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National Infection Prevention and Control Manual

National Infection Prevention and Control Manual

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Update to section 2.4 PPE and RPE

04 Sep 2020

Section 2.4 has been updated after review of the RPE literature review

http://www.nipcm.hps.scot.nhs.uk/web-resources-container/transmission-based-precautions-literature-review-respiratory-protective-equipment-rpe/

Some sections been moved around to improve readability.

Updates made:

All tight fitting RPE i.e FFP3 respirators must be:

  • Single use (disposable) and fluid-resistant.NB. Valved respirators may be shrouded or unshrouded. Respirators with unshrouded valves are not considered to be fluid-resistant and therefore should be worn with a full face shield if blood or body fluid splashing is anticipated.
  • Fit tested (by a competent fit test operator) on all healthcare staff who may be required to wear a respirator to ensure an adequate seal/fit according to the manufacturers’ guidance.

The glossary definition for airborne particles (aerosols) has changed to:

Very small particles that may contain infectious agents. They can remain in the air for long periods of time and can be carried over long distances by air currents. Aerosols can be released during aerosol generating procedures (AGPs).