Disposal of Contimanted

Doffing (removing) & Disposal of Ebola PPE

The focus of this page is to provide baseline information for the proper handling and disposal of potentially contaminated bedding, PPE and other items that may have been exposed to pathogens. For information regarding how to properly wear PPE visit:

Proper Use of Ebola PPE

It is important to understand how the Ebola virus is transmitted when handling anything that has been potentially exposed to any of a patient’s bodily fluids. Procedures for proper use of personal protective equipment goes far beyond proper wear of PPE. Ebola is often spread to unsuspecting carriers because they assume others have taken proper measures in identifying and handling soiled clothes, bedding, and PPE. The CDC has composed a Guideline for Isolation Precautions. As part of our commitment to keeping people safe, we have provided a summary below to quickly spread knowledge. However we urge all healthcare professionals and volunteers to read CDC documentation in its entirety before working in the field.

Visit the latest CDC Guidelines for PPE:
 
Guidance on Personal Protective Equipment To Be Used by Healthcare Workers During Management of Patients with Ebola Virus Disease in U.S. Hospitals, Including Procedures for Putting On (Donning) and Removing (Doffing)

Download the complete PDF Version of CDC Guideline for Isolation Precautions here:
 
        CDC Guideline for Isolation Precautions

Download the complete PDF Version of Cleaning and Decontamination of Ebola on Surfaces from OSHA:
 

   Cleaning and Decontamination of Ebola on Surfacess

Proper Disposal of PPE Begins with Proper Removal (Doffing)

Preparing for Doffing

Doffing means to remove, take off or raise ones hat. In this case, removing of clothing applies. The purpose of this step is to prepare for the removal of PPE. Before entering the PPE removal area, inspect and disinfect (using an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe) any visible contamination on the PPE. As a final step, disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR (Alcohol-based Hand Rub), and allow to dry. Verify that the trained observer is available in the PPE removal area before entering and beginning the PPE removal process.

Doffing PPE, PAPR Option – PPE doffing should be performed in the designated PPE removal area. Place all PPE waste in a leak-proof infectious waste container.

1. Engage Trained Observer: The doffing process is conducted under the supervision of a trained observer, who reads aloud each step of the procedure and confirms visually that the PPE is removed properly. Prior to doffing PPE, the trained observer must remind the healthcare worker to avoid reflexive actions that may put them at risk, such as touching their face. Post this instruction and repeat it verbally during doffing. Although the trained observer should minimize touching the healthcare worker or the healthcare worker’s PPE during the doffing process, the trained observer may assist with removal of specific components of PPE, as outlined below. The trained observer disinfects the outer-gloved hands immediately after handling any healthcare worker PPE.
2. Inspect: Inspect the PPE to assess for visible contamination, cuts, or tears before starting to remove. If any PPE is potentially contaminated, then disinfect using an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe. If the facility conditions permit and appropriate regulations are followed, an *EPA-registered disinfectant spray can be used, particularly on contaminated areas.
3. Disinfect Outer Gloves: Disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR, and allow to dry.
4. Remove Apron (if used): Remove and discard apron taking care to avoid contaminating gloves by rolling the apron from inside to outside.
5. Inspect: Following apron removal, inspect the PPE ensemble to assess for visible contamination or cuts or tears. If visibly contaminated, then disinfect affected PPE using an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe.
6. Disinfect Outer Gloves: Disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
7. Remove Boot or Shoe Covers: While sitting down, remove and discard boot or shoe covers.
8. Disinfect and Remove Outer Gloves: Disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Remove and discard outer gloves, taking care not to contaminate inner glove during removal process.
9. Inspect and Disinfect Inner Gloves: Inspect the inner gloves’ outer surfaces for visible contamination, cuts, or tears. If an inner glove is visibly soiled, cut, or torn, then disinfect the glove with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Then remove the inner gloves, perform hand hygiene with ABHR on bare hands, and don a clean pair of gloves. If no visible contamination, cuts, or tears are identified on the inner gloves, then disinfect the inner-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
10. Remove Respirator (PAPR)***:
    1. If a PAPR with a self-contained filter and blower unit integrated inside the helmet is used, then wait until Step 15 for removal and go to Step 11.
    2. If a PAPR with an external belt-mounted blower unit is used, then all components must be removed at this step.
       1. Remove and discard disposable hood.
       2. Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
       3. Remove headpiece, blower, tubing, and the belt and battery unit. This step might require assistance from the trained observer.
       4. Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
       5. Place all reusable PAPR components in an area or container designated for the collection of PAPR components for disinfection.
11. Remove Gown or Coverall: Remove and discard.
    1. Depending on gown design and location of fasteners, the healthcare worker can either untie fasteners, receive assistance by the trained observer to unfasten the gown, or gently break fasteners. Avoid contact of scrubs or disposable garments with outer surface of gown during removal. Pull gown away from body, rolling inside out and touching only the inside of the gown.
    2. To remove coverall, tilt head back and reach under the PAPR hood to reach zipper or fasteners. Use a mirror to help avoid touching the skin. Unzip or unfasten coverall completely before rolling down and turning inside out. Avoid contact of scrubs with outer surface of coverall during removal, touching only the inside of the coverall.
12. Disinfect Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR
13. Disinfect Washable Shoes: Sitting on a new clean surface (e.g., second clean chair, clean side of a bench) use an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe to wipe down every external surface of the washable shoes.
14. Disinfect Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
15. Remove Respirator (if not already removed): If a PAPR with a self-contained filter and blower unit that is integrated inside helmet is used, then remove all components.
    1. Remove and discard disposable hood
    2. Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR
    3. Remove and discard inner gloves taking care not to contaminate bare hands during removal process
    4. Perform hand hygiene with ABHR
    5. Don a new pair of inner gloves
    6. Remove helmet and the belt and battery unit. This step might require assistance from the trained observer.
16. Disinfect and Remove Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Remove and discard gloves taking care not to contaminate bare hands during removal process.
17. Perform Hand Hygiene: Perform hand hygiene with ABHR.
18. Inspect: Perform a final inspection of healthcare worker for any indication of contamination of the surgical scrubs or disposable garments. If contamination is identified, immediately inform infection preventionist or occupational safety and health coordinator or their designee before exiting PPE removal area.
19. Scrubs: Healthcare worker can leave PPE removal area wearing dedicated washable footwear and surgical scrubs or disposable garments.
20. Shower: Showers are recommended at each shift’s end for healthcare workers performing high-risk patient care (e.g., exposed to large quantities of blood, body fluids, or excreta). Showers are also suggested for healthcare workers spending extended periods of time in the Ebola patient room.
21. Protocol Evaluation/Medical Assessment: Either the infection preventionist or occupational safety and health coordinator or their designee on the unit at the time should meet with the healthcare worker to review the patient care activities performed to identify any concerns about care protocols and to record healthcare worker’s level of fatigue.

Doffing PPE, N95 Respirator Option – PPE doffing is performed in the designated PPE removal area. Place all PPE waste in a leak-proof infectious waste container.

1. Engage Trained Observer: The doffing process is conducted under the supervision of a trained observer, who reads aloud each step of the procedure and confirms visually that the PPE has been removed properly. Prior to doffing PPE, the trained observer must remind healthcare workers to avoid reflexive actions that may put them at risk, such as touching their face. Post this instruction and repeat it verbally during doffing. Although the trained observer should minimize touching healthcare workers or their PPE during the doffing process, the trained observer may assist with removal of specific components of PPE as outlined below. The trained observer disinfects the outer-gloved hands immediately after handling any healthcare worker PPE.
2. Inspect: Inspect the PPE to assess for visible contamination, cuts, or tears before starting to remove. If any PPE is visibly contaminated, then disinfect using an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe. If the facility conditions permit and appropriate regulations are followed, an *EPA-registered disinfectant spray can be used, particularly on contaminated areas.
3. Disinfect Outer Gloves: Disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
4. Remove Apron (if used): Remove and discard apron taking care to avoid contaminating gloves by rolling the apron from inside to outside.
5. Inspect: Following apron removal, inspect the PPE ensemble to assess for visible contamination or cuts or tears. If visibly contaminated, then disinfect affected PPE using an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe.
6. Disinfect Outer Gloves: Disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
7. Remove Boot or Shoe Covers: While sitting down, remove and discard boot or shoe covers.
8. Disinfect and Remove Outer Gloves: Disinfect outer-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Remove and discard outer gloves taking care not to contaminate inner gloves during removal process.
9. Inspect and Disinfect Inner Gloves: Inspect the inner gloves’ outer surfaces for visible contamination, cuts, or tears. If an inner glove is visibly soiled, cut, or torn, then disinfect the glove with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Then remove the inner gloves, perform hand hygiene with ABHR on bare hands, and don a clean pair of gloves. If no visible contamination, cuts, or tears are identified on the inner gloves, then disinfect the inner-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
10. Remove Face Shield: Remove the full face shield by tilting the head slightly forward, grabbing the rear strap and pulling it over the head, gently allowing the face shield to fall forward and discard. Avoid touching the front surface of the face shield.
11. Disinfect Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
12. Remove Surgical Hood: Unfasten (if applicable) surgical hood, gently remove, and discard. The trained observer may assist with unfastening hood.
13. Disinfect Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR.
14. Remove Gown or Coverall: Remove and discard.
    1. Depending on gown design and location of fasteners, the healthcare worker can either untie fasteners, receive assistance by the trained observer to unfasten to gown, or gently break fasteners. Avoid contact of scrubs or disposable garments with outer surface of gown during removal. Pull gown away from body, rolling inside out and touching only the inside of the gown.
    2. To remove coverall, tilt head back to reach zipper or fasteners. Unzip or unfasten coverall completely before rolling down and turning inside out. Avoid contact of scrubs with outer surface of coverall during removal, touching only the inside of the coverall.
15. Disinfect and Change Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Remove and discard gloves taking care not to contaminate bare hands during removal process. Perform hand hygiene with ABHR. Don a new pair of inner gloves.
16. Remove N95 Respirator: Remove the N95 respirator by tilting the head slightly forward, grasping first the bottom tie or elastic strap, then the top tie or elastic strap, and remove without touching the front of the N95 respirator. Discard N95 respirator.
17. Disinfect Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner gloves with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR
18. Disinfect Washable Shoes: Sitting on a new clean surface (e.g., second clean chair, clean side of a bench) use an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe to wipe down every external surface of the washable shoes.
19. Disinfect and Remove Inner Gloves: Disinfect inner-gloved hands with either an *EPA-registered disinfectant wipe or ABHR. Remove and discard gloves taking care not to contaminate bare hands during removal process.
20. Perform Hand Hygiene: Perform hand hygiene with ABHR.
21. Inspect: Perform a final inspection of healthcare worker for any indication of contamination of the surgical scrubs or disposable garments. If contamination is identified, immediately inform infection preventionist or occupational safety and health coordinator or their designee before exiting PPE removal area.
22. Scrubs: Healthcare worker can leave PPE removal area wearing dedicated washable footwear and surgical scrubs or disposable garments.
23. Shower: Showers are recommended at each shift’s end for healthcare workers performing high risk patient care (e.g., exposed to large quantities of blood, body fluids, or excreta). Showers are also suggested for healthcare workers spending extended periods of time in the Ebola patient room.
24. Protocol Evaluation/Medical Assessment: Either the infection preventionist or occupational health safety and health coordinator or their designee on the unit at the time should meet with the healthcare worker to review the patient care activities performed to identify any concerns about care protocols and to record healthcare worker’s level of fatigue.

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