Personal Protective Equipment Direct Care Workers Usually Use
Disposable Gloves
Used during tasks involving direct physical contact, such as bathing, toileting, dressing, transferring, or handling soiled laundry to prevent contamination and protect both Direct Care Workers and client from infection.
Surgical Mask
Worn during routine care and interactions, especially when the client or Direct Care Worker has cold or flu-like symptoms, or in settings where social distancing is not feasible, to reduce the risk of airborne disease transmission.
N95 Respirator
Used in high-risk care scenarios, including when working with immunocompromised clients, during respiratory outbreaks (e.g., COVID-19), or if exposure to airborne pathogens is suspected.
Face Shield
Provides additional protection for eyes, nose, and mouth when there is a risk of bodily fluid splashes, such as during bathing, oral care, or changing incontinence products, or cleaning bodily fluid spills.
Protective Gown
Protects Direct Care Worker's clothing and skin during activities with a high chance of exposure to bodily fluids, such as bathing, or dealing with incontinence. Often used in homes with infection concerns.
Hand Sanitizer
Applied before and after each client interaction or glove change. Essential for infection prevention when handwashing with soap and water is not readily available on-site.
Disinfectant Wipes
Used to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (e.g., bed rails, bathroom fixtures, mobility aids) before and after each shift or task, reducing surface contamination risk.
Shoe Cover
Used in homes where the floors may be unsanitary or contaminated, or in cases involving infectious disease to avoid spreading pathogens through footwear.
Hair Cover
Occasionally used during sterile procedures or when there is concern about hair shedding or contamination in close-contact hygiene care, especially for immunocompromised clients.
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