Personal Protective Equipment

• Protocols for contact isolation will include the use of PPE, or personal protective equipment. PPE refers to the special gear worn to prevent the spread of infection. Examples of PPE include gloves, goggles or mask, gown, cap and shoe covers. A health care professional will determine which PPE items must be worn when dealing with patients in contact isolation. A sign showing which PPE is required or instructions to see the nurse before entering the patient's room will be used to notify visitors and staff that special procedures are in effect. Staff should demonstrate how to put on and use the PPE properly.
  
  

Waste Disposal

• Contact isolation precaution protocols include the proper handling and disposal of infected waste and materials. This helps prevent the spread of infection. Separate linen and garbage containers are used to dispose of items used by patients in contact isolation. Some materials, such as those used to bandage infected wounds, are considered hazardous materials and must be discarded into designated containers and disposed of properly. Items that are used by a patient in isolation should be kept in the patient's room. Unused items kept in the room should be discarded once the isolation is lifted.
  
  

Cleaning and Disinfecting

• Proper cleaning and disinfecting helps prevents the spread of infection and is included within contact isolation precautions protocols. Disposable items should be discarded. Non-disposable items like stethoscopes, beds and IV poles will need to be cleaned with special disinfectant. Follow the cleaner's directions to ensure they are used properly. All items in the room occupied by a patient in contact isolation should be cleaned prior to use by another patient. Staff members should wear PPE when cleaning items used by an infected patient to prevent contamination.
  
  

Determing Isolation Requirements

• A patient's doctor will determine the type of isolation a patient is placed under when diagnosed with a contagious agent. The physician will also provide recommendations to the staff on which PPE is necessary when working with the patient. They can also give instructions how to handle infectious material. Some health care facilities have infection control specialists who write the protocols and hold training on how to prevent the spread of infection.