CDC updates Ebola PPE guidelines

Editor's Note

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on August 27 updated its guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE) to be used by healthcare personnel caring for suspected and confirmed Ebola patients.

The guidance clarifies the use of fluid-resistant and impermeable gowns and coveralls and provides additional explanation on:

• the rationale for respiratory protection when caring for an Ebola patient
• why the trained observer should not serve as a doffing partner
• why a designated doffing partner might be helpful, especially when using a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR)
• the order of boot cover removal—boot covers are now removed after the gown or coverall
• the importance of frequent cleaning of the floor in the doffing area.

The following guidance on the types of PPE to be used and the processes for donning (putting on) and doffing (removing) PPE is for all personnel entering the room of a patient hospitalized with Ebola. This guidance reflects lessons learned from the recent experiences of U.S.