Guidelines for preventing respiratory illness in older adults aged 60 years and above living in long-term care: A rapid review of clinical practice guidelines

Patricia Rios; Amruta Radhakrishnan; Sonia M. Thomas; Nazia Darvesh; Sharon E. Straus; Andrea C. Tricco

Note, however, that respiratory protection recommendations can evolve over time. For example, as new information about airborne transmission of SARS became available and as concern lessened, we updated our recommendations for that circumstance: In February 2004, we specified that it would be prudent for personnel working with the equipment to wear a surgical mask, but that there was no significant benefit to using an N95 respirator for that application, particularly in light of the considerable time and effort that respirator use entails. 7. Before starting work . . . If there is any question about whether the exterior surfaces of the equipment were adequately disinfected, including the bottom and back, disinfect those surfaces immediately. Also, if disposable components have not already been discarded, do that right away as well. If the equipment is not needed immediately, ECRI suggests allowing time-several hours to overnight-for viruses to die before servicing is carried out. (Note, however, that this waiting period should not be seen as a substitute for other infection control procedures.) 8. If the interior of the equipment is dusty . . . Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove dust as soon as adequate access is gained during disassembly and before working on the interior. Never blow on the equipment or use compressed air to remove dust or other particulates. 9 . Clean up when done. Clean and disinfect the work area after servicing is complete. 10 . If an exposure occurs . . . If you believe you have been exposed to SARS-CoV while unprotected, consult with the hospital's infection control practitioner, epidemiologist, or employee health staff for the procedures to follow.