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[Cross-posting from Infexion Connexion – Moderator]
Hi Wandin
We have applied a risk-based approach to expired PPE.
For example:
1) Nitrile gloves
have been put into general circulation for use when vinyl gloves would normally have been used.
Risk = same as using vinyl gloves for standard precautions.
Rationale = stock is in good condition (ie: not water or heat damaged, packaging is intact), and reduces environmental impact (not discarding just because of an expiry date).
2) Shields
Still in use for outbreaks despite any potential expiry date.
Risk = what impact would an expiry date have on the quality of the product?
Rationale = stock is in good condition (ie: not water or heat damaged, packaging is intact). Suspect impact to staff is low if used out of date but remains in good (new) condition. Consideration to environmental impact (not just discarding because of an expiry date).
3) Gowns
Still in use for any type of outbreak despite any potential expiry date.
Risk = What is the actual percentage of transmission of a microorganism via clothing which has become contaminated due to an out of date gown? OR are we just talking a theoretical possibility.
Rationale = stock is in good condition (ie: not water or heat damaged, packaging is intact), and impact to staff low if used out of date but remain in good (new) condition. Staff are going home, changing, and washing clothes at end of each shift. Reduction of environmental impact (not just discarding because of an expiry date).
This one is probably the most controversial, however the risk of transference would be low versus negligible if new and in date.
4) N95 masks
Not an issue, ours are all in date.
5) RATs
We have discarded cartons and cartons of test kits.
Risk = if an out-of-date RAT is used and incorrectly gives a negative result, thus the person enters the facility, spread and subsequently infect residents and staff resulting in an outbreak.
Rationale = they have a preservative which will wane in effectiveness over time and strict storage requirements cannot have been guaranteed (ie: power failure etc) they have been discarded.
Hope this helps.
I know my response will be seen as NOT best practice, but this is what is really happening.
Vanessa Watkins
RN, Quality Manager & IPC Lead
Donwood Community & Aged Care Services
11 Diana Street, Croydon 3136
9845 8509 (Mon – Thur)
vwatkins@donwood.com.au
http://www.donwood.com.au
Michael Wishart
Infection Control Coordinator
St Vincent's Private Hospital Northside & St Vincent's Private Hospital Brisbane
Brisbane, QLD
michael.wishart@svha.org.au