Desperate measures in desperate times : DIY PPE WITH RESPIRATOR (in areas with minimum resources)

Vol 6 | Issue 1 | January-April 2020 | page: 11-12 | Mahanti Venkataramana, Ejjapureddi Sireesha, K. Janaki Babu,
P. Saroj


Author: Mahanti Venkataramana [1], Ejjapureddi Sireesha [1], K. Janaki Babu [1],
P. Saroj [1]

[1] Department of Anaesthesia specialist, Government medical college, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Ejjapureddi Sireesha
Government Medical College, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Email: drsiri786@gmail.com


Desperate measures in desperate times : DIY PPE WITH RESPIRATOR
(in areas with minimum resources)


COVID 19, is a novel disease in the humans which is terrorising the whole world and blew up to become a pandemic in just a span of few months. The virus because of its rapid spread & infectivity is giving the healthcare system of every country a tough time. In India, though not fully blown yet, it will be very difficult to face the situation because of dire lack in the infrastructure and resources. Not just the ventilators but we may even run out of proper masks and PPE as well. Proper PPE, giving complete protection i.e, including a respirator, is the right of every healthcare worker especially during aerosol generating procedures. But unfortunately neither the technology nor the resources in our country will be adequate to cater to the present rising demand. So, in order to protect ourselves to the best of our ability and with the minimum resources, we have come up with this little innovation.

The disadvantage
It is not comfortable for longer use if tucked into the gown completely.
If we are using it as only a hood to prevent spillage of contaminated
material, we can wear it over our PPE which contains N95 mask,
goggles, cap, gown & footwear. This will be bearable for some small
procedures.

Converting into a Respirator
The advantages are it can be completely tucked into the surgical gown
for a complete seal from surrounding environment. The oxygen allows
to stay put for longer times comfortably, prevents fogging of the OHP
sheet and most importantly the oxygen flow pushes air out & prevents
any inward flow of air.

The disadvantage
It is not comfortable for longer use if tucked into the gown completely. If we are using it as only a hood to prevent spillage of contaminated material, we can wear it over our PPE which contains N95 mask, goggles, cap, gown & footwear. This will be bearable for some small procedures.

Converting into a Respirator
The advantages are it can be completely tucked into the surgical gown for a complete seal from surrounding environment. The oxygen allows to stay put for longer times comfortably, prevents fogging of the OHP sheet and most importantly the oxygen flow pushes air out & prevents any inward flow of air.

Doffing off & Disposal the Hood
A small note on doffing off the hood. After removing the gown inside out according to the protocols, we then place our gloved hands on These are testing times for all healthcare workers around the world. We are forced to try novel, simple and effective ways to protect ourselves and thus also the society. This is definitely not tested or inner side of the hood and just remove it inside out. Then wrap it carefully not touching any outer surface and dispose it in the specific bags. evidence based but an attempt to protect ourselves against this dreadful disease.


 

How to Cite this Article: Venkataramana M, Ejjapureddi S, K. Janaki Babu, P. Saroj | Desperate measures in desperate times : DIY PPE WITH RESPIRATOR. | Journal of Anaesthesia and Critical Care Case Reports | Jan-April 2020; 6(1): 11-12.

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