For airborne precautions, the essential personal protective equipment (PPE) includes a fit-tested N95 or higher respirator mask, gloves, gowns, and eye protection, always accompanied by diligent hand hygiene.
Airborne precautions are critical measures implemented to prevent the spread of infectious agents that remain infectious over long distances when suspended in the air. These tiny particles can travel on air currents and be inhaled by individuals in the same room or even further away.
Essential PPE for Airborne Precautions
The primary PPE components for airborne precautions are designed to create a barrier against these microscopic airborne particles and droplet nuclei.
| PPE Item | Specifics/Purpose |
|---|---|
| Respirator Mask | Fit-tested N95 or higher respirator; filters out at least 95% of airborne particles. |
| Gown | Protects clothing and skin from contamination. |
| Gloves | Prevents hand contamination upon contact with surfaces or individuals. |
| Eye Protection | Safeguards eyes from splashes or aerosols. |
1. Respirator Mask: The Cornerstone of Protection
The most crucial piece of PPE for airborne precautions is a specialized respirator mask.
- Fit-Tested N95 or Higher Respirator: Unlike a standard surgical mask, an N95 respirator is designed to filter out at least 95% of very small airborne particles. It must be fit-tested to ensure a tight seal around the wearer's face, preventing air leakage and ensuring proper filtration. Higher-level respirators, such as P100s, offer even greater filtration efficiency.
- Practical Insight: Without a proper fit-test, an N95 respirator cannot provide its intended level of protection. Healthcare facilities are required to provide annual fit-testing for their staff.
2. Gown
A clean gown provides a barrier to protect the wearer's skin and clothing from contamination with infectious material.
- Purpose: Worn over personal clothing or scrubs, it helps prevent the transfer of pathogens to other areas or individuals.
- Application: Donned before entering the isolation room and doffed (removed) before leaving.
3. Gloves
Gloves are essential to prevent direct contact contamination.
- Purpose: Protect hands when touching surfaces or individuals that may be contaminated.
- Application: Worn during patient interaction and removed immediately after, followed by hand hygiene.
4. Eye Protection
Eye protection is necessary to shield the mucous membranes of the eyes from potential splashes or aerosols.
- Examples: Goggles or a face shield.
- Purpose: Prevents infectious particles from entering the body through the eyes.
Crucial Practice: Hand Hygiene
While not technically a PPE item, hand hygiene is a critical component of infection control and must be performed immediately after removing all PPE and anytime hands become contaminated. This involves washing hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub. Proper hand hygiene significantly reduces the risk of self-contamination and transmission.
When is Airborne PPE Needed?
Airborne precautions are necessary when caring for patients with diseases caused by very small airborne droplet nuclei, such as:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Measles
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Disseminated Herpes Zoster
These pathogens can remain suspended in the air for extended periods and travel long distances, necessitating specialized respiratory protection and a controlled environment (e.g., negative pressure isolation rooms).
