Department of Health updates COVID PPE recommendations

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has updated its PPE guidelines for use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.

Key updates include:

• Respirators and eye protection: DOH continues to recommend following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance on the use of respirators and eye protection when caring for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Gown and gloves: DOH recommends that providers wear gown and gloves when there is a reasonable anticipation of contact with potentially infectious material, in alignment with standard precautions and the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard.

The DOH PPE Recommendations are also posted on the DOH COVID-19 Infection Prevention in Health Care Settings page.

If you have questions about this guidance, please contact hai@doh.wa.gov. (Rosemary Grant)