PPE must be readily available to staff.
It must be stored and used according to manufacturers’ instructions and out of the reach of individuals and visitors, particularly children, because PPE may present a hazard in itself.
GLOVES…MASKS…
Masks, aprons and gloves should be disposed of in the appropriate waste bag according to the Infection Prevention and Control Policy for your organisation and the individual(s) you are working with.
Items of PPE should NEVER be carelessly discarded as they can represent a hazard to others and also to the environment.
The psychological effect on an individual of a worker wearing a mask or visor should not be underestimated.
This is particularly so in social care where the individual may already be confused or disorientated. The sight of someone wearing a face mask may be frightening and may adversely affect their behaviour.
An individual who is hearing impaired may rely on lip reading and a worker wearing a mask will remove this essential communication tool.
A manager will need to risk assess this situation and decide appropriate steps to overcome this communication barrier.
A manager will need to risk assess this situation and decide appropriate steps to overcome this communication barrier.
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