Why Healthcare Workers Wear Full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) During COVID-19 Outbreak

During the ongoing pandemic, many questions and concerns have been raised about the practices and procedures healthcare workers follow to protect themselves and those around them. One such question often posed is why health officials and medical professionals wear full white suits, commonly known as personal protective equipment (PPE), during the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Understanding the Spread of COVID-19

The coronavirus primarily spreads through droplets in the air, which can enter the mouth, nose, or eyes of an uninfected person. However, it can also spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or by touching a contaminated surface and then touching the face. This is why healthcare workers take extreme precautions, including wearing full PPE, during their daily routines.

The Importance of PPE

Healthcare professionals wear PPE to protect themselves and others from the risk of infection. This includes disposable gowns, face masks, goggles, and gloves. These items are designed to create a barrier between the worker and potential sources of infection. A full-body gown, such as the white suits seen in hospitals, provides an added layer of protection from contact with bodily fluids, droplets, or potentially contaminated objects.

Healthcare workers do not simply don these suits and walk into an intensive care unit (ICU) without proper equipment. They follow strict protocols, such as showering, changing into PPE, and showering again before leaving the hospital. This practice not only protects the healthcare workers but also their families, as the virus can easily be transmitted home without the necessary precautions.

Aerosol Transmission and Its Risks

While the primary mode of transmission is through droplets, the coronavirus has been shown to transmit via aerosols in rare occasions. Aerosols are tiny droplets that can remain suspended in the air for extended periods. They can be generated during medical procedures such as intubation, suctioning, and mechanical ventilation. The presence of these aerosols poses a significant risk to healthcare workers who are in close contact with patients.

Therefore, healthcare professionals who work in clinical settings, especially with patients infected with COVID-19, are at a higher risk of contracting the virus through aerosol. This is why they need extra layers of protection, such as full PPE, to minimize the risk of infection.

Studies Supporting PPE Protocols

Studies have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of PPE in reducing the transmission of infectious diseases in hospital settings. These studies have demonstrated a significant reduction in the spread of various pathogens, including COVID-19. By implementing strict protocols for PPE, healthcare facilities can create a safer environment for patients and staff.

For example, a systematic review on the risk of transmission of acute respiratory infections through aerosol-generating procedures highlights the importance of protective measures in preventing the spread of such infections.

Conclusion

While some may find the use of full PPE unsightly or inconvenient, these measures are critical for the safety and health of both healthcare workers and patients. The primary concern for healthcare professionals is not appearance but rather the protection of lives. By following strict PPE protocols, healthcare workers can significantly reduce the risk of infection and maintain a safe environment for everyone involved.