A CBS News story noted: “A manual published in 2007 by the CDC, “Guidelines for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Healthcare Settings,” outlines protocols that should be adhered when caring for patients with Ebola.”
“The report recommends health care workers wear single gloves for routine care and double gloves during surgery and other invasive procedures that could potentially pose risk for blood exposure. It’s also highly recommended that anyone in contact with an Ebola patient wears eye protection, such as goggles or a face shield, since the disease is easily contracted with fluid contact to the mucous membrane such as the tissue of the eyes. Additionally, health care workers should wear fluid-resistant gowns.”
“When conducting medical procedures that may offer higher opportunity for exposure to a patient’s body fluid — such as endotracheal intubation, bronchoscopy, suctioning, or autopsy procedures — even more coverage is recommended.”
Click here to read the full CNS story “How U.S. Hospitals Plan to Keep Ebola Contained” by Jessica Firger.
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Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration.
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.