When gloves are worn in combination with other PPE, they are put on last. Gloves that fit snugly around the wrist are preferred for use with an isolation gown because they cover the gown cuff and provide a continuous barrier for arms, wrists, and hands. Gloves removed properly will prevent hand contamination, though hand hygiene should be performed following glove removal.
Heavier utility gloves are indicated for such activities as handling or cleaning contaminated equipment or surfaces. During contact with remains, transmission of infectious organisms can be reduced by adhering to the principles of working from “clean” to “dirty” and confining or limiting contamination to areas essential to the procedure. It may be necessary to change gloves if interaction also involves touching portable computer keyboards or other mobile equipment (Siegel et al., 2007/2022). Face protection Masks protect against contact with infectious material from secretions and sprays of blood or body fluids. Masks may be used in combination with goggles to protect the mouth, nose, and eyes, or a face shield may be used to provide more complete protection for the face. The mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and eyes are susceptible portals of entry for infectious agents, as can be skin surfaces if skin integrity is compromised. The use of masks, eye protection, and face shields in specified circumstances when blood or body fluid exposures are likely is mandated by the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (Siegel et al., 2007/2022). The eye protection chosen for specific work situations depends upon the circumstances of exposure, other PPE used, and personal vision needs. Isolation gowns Isolation gowns protect the arms and exposed body areas and prevent contamination of clothing with blood, body fluids, and other potentially infectious material. The need for and type of isolation gown is based on the nature of the interaction, including the anticipated degree of contact with infectious material and potential for blood and body fluid penetration of the barrier. Conclusion Although the COVID-19 pandemic has focused society’s attention on the hazards of respiratory disease and its spread through the air, the dangers of HIV and other bloodborne pathogens are still very real. Although great strides have been made in the treatment of HIV, and in treatment and cure of other bloodborne pathogens, it is best to avoid the illnesses in the first place. If exposed, it is best to receive treatment as soon as possible. The best defense against these pathogens is knowledge of how they are spread and how they can be avoided or overcome. It is important for professionals in the funeral industry to be aware of which bloodborne pathogens survive the longest and pose the most danger and to follow the guidance of government agencies and professional organizations.
Indirectly vented goggles with a manufacturer’s antifog coating may provide the most reliable practical eye protection from splashes, sprays, and respiratory droplets from multiple angles. Newer styles of goggles may provide better indirect airflow properties to reduce fogging, as well as better peripheral vision and more size options for fitting goggles to different workers. Many styles of goggles fit adequately over prescription glasses with minimal gaps. Disposable or nondisposable face shields may be used as an alternative to goggles. Compared with goggles, a face shield can provide protection to other facial areas in addition to the eyes. Face shields extending from chin to crown provide better face and eye protection from splashes. Concerning splash protection, the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID) recommends an apron “where splashing to body may occur (hygienic preparation, embalming, collection of traumatised bodies, postmortem examinations). Best worn under gowns or coats if splashing is likely to be profuse” (Hoffman & Healing, 2022). For feet, ISID recommends “rubber boots. In wet situations (mortuaries, embalming rooms, collecting severe multiple trauma cases)” (Hoffman & Healing, 2022).
WORKS CITED https://qr2.mobi/HIV_AIDS_Funeral
EliteLearning.com/Funeral
Book Code: FFL1225
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