HOPE HOSPITALS EQUIP ITS STAFF WITH PPE KITS

During infectious disease outbreaks, it is particularly important to take serious precautionary measures to control the spread of the virus infections from person to person. Keeping this in mind HOPE an NGO in Pakistan has understood the significance of the dangers involved while handling patients at their hospitals and has taken a step of precautionary measures to stop the spread of the virus as well as protect their staff and other patients from getting infected by corona. A set of SOPs have been developed and are being implemented in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and does not replace any routine clinical practice already in place at HOPE Hospitals.

The main route of transmission of COVID-19 is through respiratory droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes.  Any person who is in close contact with someone who has respiratory symptoms (e.g., sneezing, coughing, etc.) is at risk of being exposed to potentially infective respiratory droplets.  Droplets may also land on surfaces where the virus could remain viable for several hours to days. Transmission through contact of hands with contaminated surfaces can occur following contact with the person’s mucosa such as nose, mouth and eyes.

Keeping these risks in mind of how corona virus can infect one another HOPE- A Health NGO in Pakistan are providing their staff with PPE gears to protect its hospital staff from getting infected, so that they may continue their services and save more lives.  The PPE Gears provided are as follows:

Medical mask reduce the transfer of saliva and respiratory droplets to others and help block blood and other potentially infectious materials from the skin, mouth, or nose of the wearer.  

Gowns: Non-sterile, long-sleeved hospital gowns are indicated for use for direct care of patients with COVID-19. 

Goggles: Goggles provide protection for the eyes. They fit tightly over and around the eyes to prevent penetration of splashes or sprays. 

Gloves:  To prevent direct human touch on infected objects and surfaces. As well as germs penetrating through sensitive skin. 

Respirators: Provide protection against inhalation of very small infectious airborne particulates indicated for use in patients with COVID-19.

Apart from PPE kits the Hospital is disinfected through sprays every few hours and social distancing between the staff and patients is strictly followed.

According to Dr. Mubiana Agboatwalla – A Child Specialist in Karachi, providing equipment such as gloves, gowns goggles etc. will help in resisting the risk of the hospital staff getting infected and will ensure the health and safety of employees.