In the healthcare industry, isolation gowns are an essential piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) that play a critical role in protecting healthcare workers and patients from the spread of infectious diseases. However, not all isolation gowns are created equal. To ensure maximum protection, it’s essential to understand the five critical components of isolation gowns.
1. Material
The first critical component of isolation gowns is the material. Isolation gowns can be made from a variety of materials, including polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyester. Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right material will depend on the specific needs of your healthcare facility. Polypropylene gowns, for example, are lightweight and breathable, while polyester gowns are more durable and offer better protection against fluids.
2. Level of Protection
The second critical component of isolation gowns is the level of protection they offer. Isolation gowns are classified into four levels of protection based on their ability to resist penetration by liquids and microorganisms. Level 1 gowns offer the lowest level of protection, while level 4 gowns offer the highest level of protection. Choosing the right level of protection will depend on the specific task being performed and the level of risk of exposure to infectious diseases.
3. Design
The third critical component of isolation gowns is the design. Isolation gowns can come in different designs, including open-back and full-back gowns. Open-back gowns provide better ventilation and are easier to put on and take off, while full-back gowns offer better coverage and protection against fluids.
4. Size and Fit
The fourth critical component of isolation gowns is size and fit. Isolation gowns come in different sizes to accommodate healthcare workers of different heights and sizes. It’s important to choose a gown that fits well to ensure maximum protection and comfort. A poorly fitting gown can increase the risk of exposure to infectious diseases.
5. Comfort
The fifth critical component of isolation gowns is comfort. Isolation gowns can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods, and this can impact the ability of healthcare workers to perform their duties effectively. Choosing a gown that is lightweight and breathable can improve comfort and reduce the risk of heat stress.
To choose the right isolation gown for your healthcare facility, it’s important to consider all five critical components. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers guidance on selecting protective clothing for exposure to hazardous materials, including isolation gowns, in
their publication “Considerations for Selecting Protective Clothing used in Healthcare for Protection against Microorganisms in Blood and Body Fluids” [1]. The Joint Commission has also published standards for gown selection that offer improved protection for healthcare workers [2].
When selecting isolation gowns, it’s important to ensure they meet specific performance requirements. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International has developed a standard test method for resistance of materials used in protective clothing to penetration by blood-borne pathogens using Phi-X174 bacteriophage penetration as a test system [3]. The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) has also published guidelines for the liquid barrier performance and classification of protective apparel and drapes intended for use in healthcare facilities [4].
For more information on how to choose the right isolation gown, check out this blog post from Interquip Healthcare, “How to Choose the Right Isolation Gown” [5]. By mastering the five critical components of isolation gowns, you can ensure maximum protection for healthcare workers and patients alike.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – “Considerations for Selecting Protective Clothing used in Healthcarefor Protection against Microorganisms in Blood and Body Fluids” – https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2009-132/pdfs/2009-132.pdf
- The Joint Commission – “National Patient Safety Goals” – https://www.jointcommission.org/-/media/deprecated-unorganized/imported-assets/tjc/system-folders/joint-commission-online/npsgs/npsg_chapter_hap_jan2017pdf.pdf?db=web&hash=7CC5D5A05E7D450C79F6C3228F1E7846
- American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International – “Standard Test Method for Resistance of Materials Used in Protective Clothing to Penetration by Blood-Borne Pathogens Using Phi-X174 Bacteriophage Penetration as a Test System” – https://www.astm.org/Standards/F1671.htm
- Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) – “Liquid Barrier Performance and Classification of Protective Apparel and Drapes Intended for Use in Healthcare Facilities” – https://my.aami.org/aamiresources/previewfiles/116-1223_Preview.pdf
- Interquip Healthcare – “How to Choose the Right Isolation Gown” – https://www.interquip.healthcare/how-to-choose-the-right-isolation-gown/
In summary, isolation gowns are an essential component of personal protective equipment in healthcare settings, and mastering the five critical components of material, level of protection, design, size and fit, and comfort is crucial for ensuring maximum protection for healthcare workers and patients. By considering guidance from organizations like the CDC and ASTM and following standards like those set by the Joint Commission and AAMI, healthcare facilities can choose the right isolation gowns for their specific needs. To learn more, check out the helpful resources provided by Interquip Healthcare.
