Course Access
Hi Denise
Balancing infection prevention and control (IPC), resident safety, and person-centred care can be challenging in a memory support unit. PPE stations should be designed following a local risk assessment while supporting safe work practices.
The location and design of PPE stations should minimise risks to residents (e.g. wandering, tampering with equipment, or ingestion of supplies) while enabling healthcare workers to safely comply with IPC requirements. The risk assessment should consider the needs of residents living with dementia and maintain a safe environment wherever possible.
Donning Station – MSU Entrance
Where PPE is risk assessed for all healthcare workers entering the memory support unit, establish a dedicated donning station at the entrance.
The station should include:
* PPE for contact and respiratory (PFR) precautions.
* ABHR positioned according to risk assessment.
* A general waste bin for PPE packaging.
* Signage for:
* Contact and airborne precautions – PPE donning sequence.
* PFR fit check, mirror as possible.
* How to perform hand hygiene – hand rub.
Doffing Station – Inside the Unit (Exit)
Where possible:
* Remove gown and gloves immediately before leaving the unit.
* Position a waste bin at the exit (general or clinical waste, as determined by risk assessment).
* Ensure alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) is available (wall-mounted where assessed as safe, or personal ABHR where appropriate).
* Display signage for:
* Contact precautions – PPE doffing sequence.
* How to perform hand hygiene – hand rub.
Doffing Station – Outside the Unit
After exiting the unit:
* Remove eye protection and the particulate filter respirator (PFR).
* Locate this doffing station away from the PPE donning station to minimise the risk of contamination.
* Provide:
* A waste bin (general or clinical waste, as determined by risk assessment).
* ABHR.
* Signage for:
* Airborne precautions – PPE doffing sequence.
* How to perform hand hygiene – hand rub.
Hope this helps
Regards Carrie