Posted on: January 12, 2023
Updated for clarity, in response to questions below. The documents on the IPAC page reflect all current guidance: Jan 12, 2023
In light of updated guidance around PPE, and as the pandemic continues to evolve and change, IPAC has retired the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) During COVID-19 Pandemic Guidelines, that we have been referencing since early 2020.
Much of our practice is still the same, but we are shifting our 'source of truth' for current PPE practices back to our regular IPAC site to reflect the latest information.
All current guidance regarding PPE can be found on the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) website.
Please ensure you use this site as your primary source for information and updates to ensure you have the safety equipment and protocols necessary to protect yourself and your patients.
In response to some recurring questions:
- The point of care risk assessment should continue to be used in all situations, along with the reference to any additional precautions posters that may be posted, for guidance on what PPE should be worn/used.
- Island Health continues to follow the direction of the Ministry of Health's Mask Policy. This is contextualized to Island Health, in the Island Health Mask Policy. These two documents remain in place and are unchanged since April 2022. Masks continue to be worn within all care areas at this time.
In addition to these resources, your Infection Prevention and Control Practitioners are available to answer questions while they are on rounds on your unit, or via phone or email.
If you come across any broken links in documents, due to the retirement of the hardworking PPE during COVID-19 Pandemic Guideline, please contact IPAC.enquiries@islandhealth.ca with details, so we can correct.
Wishing you all a happy New Year and we look forward to many changes to come this year!