COVID-19 Information for Residency Programs - Week of May 26
Dear valued Residents and Fellows,
Thank you again for the work you are doing, and care you are providing, during the uncertainty and stress that is ‘COVID’. I have provided some information below for you to help with the ‘donning and doffing’ of your PPE that you may find useful. As always, please reach out with any concerns or questions.
With our support, appreciation and admiration,
From,
Lois and your PGME Team
Donning, Doffing, Reuse, Basic Extended Use
Please refresh yourselves on proper donning, doffing, and mask reuse and extended use principles:
Donning
- Perform hand hygiene;
- Check for defects, such as tears or broken loops;
- Place mask over nose, mouth and under chin, with the nose piece positioned over nose bridge;
- Secure mask on head with the ear loops;
- Mold the bendable strip over the nose bridge to the shape of your nose;
- Pull the bottom of the mask over your mouth and chin.
Doffing
- Perform hand hygiene;
- Remove an ear loop and lift away from face while holding the ear loop;
- Discard mask or place in a clean safe location as noted above for reuse;
- Perform hand hygiene.
Reuse
- Mask should be carefully removed and may be folded so that the inner surface is facing inward;
- Masks should be stored in a way that keeps them clean, dry, and protected, e.g. clean space or placed in a paper bag (HMMS #249);
- If the mask becomes contaminated, remove and discard it;
- Handling of the mask prior to re-donning must be done with clean hands.
Basic Extended Use Principles
- A mask can be used over the course of one shift, regardless of precautions;
- A mask can be worn for as long as possible, but once wet, damaged, or visibly soiled, it must be discarded in the garbage. In non-clinical areas, ask your leader for a new mask if you must discard;
- Do not touch the front of the mask, if you do, immediately perform hand hygiene;
- Always take adequate time when removing a mask to prevent self-contamination.
