Summary
The degree of protection required in looking after people with COVID-19 infection, is dependent on the particular environment to which the HCW is exposed. Covering more of the body could provide better protection for HCWs. However, the degree of protection required is dependent on the particular environment. Of importance, it is not just the provision of PPE but the skills in donning and doffing of PPE that are important, this being a key time for potential transmission of pathogen to the HCW and in due time from them to others.
As the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic abates gradually, surely now is the time for an urgent review of what PPE should be used to decrease COVID-19 transmission, based on the evidence to date from health systems that have dealt with the first wave of the pandemic.
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