CDC offers a series of strategies to consider to optimize the use of isolation gowns in health care settings when there is limited supply. These strategies offer a continuum of options using the framework of surge capacity when PPE supplies are shortage. The following is a summary of these strategies:
Consider the use of gowns:
While coveralls can provide full-body protection, the material, coverage provided, and the garment design and features will greatly affect the protective level. In the US, the NFPA 1999 standard external icon specifies the minimum design, performance, testing, documentation. They also require certifications for new single-use emergency medical operations PPE, including isolation gowns.
Use of expired gowns beyond the manufacturer-designated shelf life:
Most protective suits do not have a manufacturer-designated shelf life. However, wearers can consider to use gowns that do and are past their manufacturer-designated shelf life. Facilities should contact the manufacturer.
Use gowns conforming to international standards:
Current guidelines do not require the use of gowns that conform to any standards. In times of shortages, health care facilities can consider using international gowns and coveralls.
Extended use of gowns:
Similarly, implement extended use of isolation gowns for patients without COVID-19 symptoms. Healthcare workers need to change or dispose gowns when soiled, wet, or after interacting with a patient or resident.
Re-use of cloth isolation gowns:
While isolation gowns cannot typically be doffed and reused. But cloth isolation gowns could potentially be untied and retied. Therefore considered for reuse without laundering in between. Additionally, consider reuse of gowns with no visible soiling for care of patients with COVID-19.
Prioritize gowns:
Prioritize gowns for aerosol-generating procedures. Activities possibly include sprays, high-contact activities, and for the care of patients with non-COVID-19 transmissible diagnoses.
When using these strategies, healthcare facilities should:
- Consider these options and implement them sequentially
- Understand their current PPE inventory, supply chain, and utilization rate
- As PPE availability returns to normal, promptly resume standard practices
Conduct appropriate training and consider monitoring donning and doffing when health care workers layer gowns and gown alternatives. Ecomnet will continue to pursue all options to increase the supply of isolation gowns and other PPE. We will continue to provide updates on the status of these efforts.
