Choosing The Right PPE for Aged Care & Healthcare Facilities in Australia
In Australia’s aged care and healthcare sectors, the safety of staff, residents, and patients hinges on one critical factor: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). With the rise of infectious diseases like COVID-19 and influenza, the importance of choosing the right PPE cannot be overstated.
Did you know that proper PPE use can reduce infection transmission by up to 80% in healthcare settings? This blog will guide you through the essentials of PPE for aged care and healthcare facilities, ensuring compliance with Australian standards and safeguarding your workplace.
Whether you’re a caregiver, nurse, or facility manager, this guide is your roadmap to selecting, using, and maintaining PPE effectively.
Understanding PPE in Aged Care & Healthcare.
What is PPE?
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to specialised clothing or gear designed to protect wearers from infections, injuries, or hazardous exposures. In aged care and healthcare, PPE is the first line of defense against pathogens. Learn more in our PPE Buying Guide.
Australian PPE Regulations
Australia’s Department of Health and Safe Work Australia mandates strict PPE guidelines for healthcare and aged care facilities. Key standards include:
- TGA Approval: PPE must meet Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards.
- Infection Control Protocols: Compliance with the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare.
Essential PPE for Aged Care & Healthcare Facilities
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have PPE items and their uses:
1. Gloves
- Types: Nitrile (latex-free), vinyl, or surgical gloves.
- When to Use: During patient care, handling bodily fluids, or cleaning.
- Disposal: Single-use gloves must be discarded after each task.
2. Masks
- Surgical Masks: For general patient interactions.
- N95 Respirators: Required for aerosol-generating procedures (e.g., suctioning).
3. Gowns/Aprons
- Disposable Gowns: Ideal for high-risk procedures.
- Reusable Aprons: Suitable for low-risk tasks like meal assistance.
4. Eye Protection
- Face Shields or Goggles: Protect against splashes or droplets.
5. Shoe Covers & Head Covers
- Use Cases: During surgical procedures or in isolation wards.
Choosing the Right PPE
Quality Matters
Always opt for TGA-approved PPE to ensure efficacy and safety. Eve Zone offers a curated range of compliant PPE tailored for Australian healthcare needs.
Fit & Comfort
- Masks should seal snugly without gaps.
- Gloves must fit well to maintain dexterity.
Supplier Reliability
Partner with trusted suppliers like Eve Zone for consistent, high-quality PPE deliveries.
Proper Use and Disposal of PPE
Donning & Doffing Guide
1. Donning (Putting On):
Hand hygiene → Gown → Mask → Gloves → Eye protection.
2. Doffing (Removing):
Gloves → Hand hygiene → Gown → Eye protection → Mask → Hand hygiene.
3. Disposal Best Practices
- Single-Use PPE: Discard in designated biohazard bins.
- Reusable Items: Clean and disinfect according to manufacturer guidelines.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reusing disposable masks or gloves.
- Touching the front of the masks during removal.
PPE in Infection Control
How PPE Reduces Spread
PPE acts as a barrier against pathogens, significantly lowering infection rates in facilities. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, aged care homes with strict PPE protocols reported fewer outbreaks.
Case Study
A Melbourne aged care facility implemented daily PPE audits and saw a 40% drop in staff infections within three months.
Challenges and Solutions
1. Supply Chain Issues
- Solution: Maintain a 3-month PPE stockpile and diversify suppliers.
2. Staff Training
- Solution: Conduct monthly PPE workshops to reinforce proper usage.
3. Budget Constraints
- Solution: Balance cost and quality by bulk-ordering from reliable suppliers like Eve Zone.
Future Trends in PPE
Innovations
- Smart PPE: Sensors to monitor wearer vitals.
- Antimicrobial Fabrics: Reduce pathogen survival on surfaces.
Sustainability
Eco-friendly PPE options, such as biodegradable gloves, are gaining traction.
Choosing the right PPE is non-negotiable for aged care and healthcare facilities in Australia. From TGA-approved masks to proper disposal protocols, every detail matters in protecting lives.
Ready to upgrade your PPE? Explore Eve Zone’s certified PPE range today or contact our experts for personalised advice.
Ensure Safety and Compliance with This Step-by-Step Guide
PPE Checklist for your Facility
1. PPE Inventory Checklist
Gloves
- Nitrile or latex-free gloves (TGA-approved)
- Correct sizes (S, M, L, XL)
- Adequate stock for daily use
Masks
- Surgical masks (for general use)
- N95/P2 respirators (for aerosol-generating procedures)
Gowns/Aprons
- Disposable gowns (fluid-resistant)
- Reusable aprons (for low-risk tasks)
Eye Protection
- Face shields or goggles
- Anti-fog coatings (if applicable)
Shoe & Head Covers
- Disposable shoe covers
- Bouffant caps or hairnets
Hand Hygiene Supplies
- Alcohol-based hand sanitiser (70%+ alcohol)
- Soap and disposable towels
2. PPE Donning (Putting On) Checklist
Step 1: Hand Hygiene
- Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser.
Step 2: Gown/Apron
- Put on a clean gown or apron, ensuring full coverage.
Step 3: Mask
- Secure a surgical mask or an N95 respirator, ensuring a snug fit.
Step 4: Eye Protection
- Wear goggles or a face shield, adjusting for comfort.
Step 5: Gloves
- Put on gloves, extending them over the gown cuffs.
3. PPE Doffing (Removing) Checklist
Step 1: Gloves
- Peel off gloves carefully, avoiding skin contact.
- Dispose of in a biohazard bin.
Step 2: Hand Hygiene
- Sanitise or wash your hands immediately.
Step 3: Gown/Apron
- Untie and remove, rolling it inward to contain contaminants.
- Dispose of or place in a laundry bin (if reusable).
Step 4: Eye Protection
- Remove goggles or face shield by the straps.
- Clean with disinfectant if reusable.
Step 5: Mask
- Remove by the ear loops (avoid touching the front).
- Discard in a biohazard bin.
Step 6: Final Hand Hygiene
- Wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
4. PPE Disposal & Storage Checklist
Disposal
- Single-use PPE → Biohazard bins.
- Reusable PPE → Clean and store as per guidelines.
Storage
- Keep PPE in a clean, dry area away from contaminants.
- Monitor expiry dates for masks and gloves.
Restocking
- Reorder before stock falls below a 2-week supply.
5. Emergency Preparedness Checklist
PPE Stockpile
- Maintain a 3-month supply of critical PPE.
Staff Training
- Monthly refreshers on PPE use and infection control.
Audit Compliance
- Weekly checks to ensure PPE is accessible and undamaged.
Additional Resources
- Australian Department of Health PPE Guidelines
- Download our free PPE checklist for your facility.
- Need help? Call Eve Zone at +61 2 8664 2229