PPE Training and the Effectiveness of Universal Masking in Preventing Exposures: The Importance of the Relationship Between Anesthesia and Infection Prevention.

Holdsworth, Jill; Sanford, Dr Jay

BACKGROUND Early in the pandemic, IP, in collaboration with our local anesthesia leadership, took the approach of ensuring all members of the Anesthesia Department understood the importance of universal masking, were individually trained on the use of the CAPRâ„¢ (Controlled Air Purifier Respirator), as well the appropriate method for donning/doffing N95 respirators METHODS: Multiple providers in the department tested positive for COVID, resulting in the Infection Prevention Department to conduct the routine contact tracing investigation. During the investigation, it was determined that all persons who met the CDC contact exposure guidelines would undergo COVID testing, which consequently was 109 team members due to the exposure risk identified in the break room space. Infection Prevention worked with the Anesthesia Pre-Op Clinic to test all team members identified over a 3-day period (approximately 5-7 days post-exposure). CONCLUSIONS Out of the 109 team members who were tested post-exposure, there were zero conversions. The department attributes this to the consistency in PPE training, support and collaboration between Anesthesia and Infection Prevention led to successful care for COVID patients with a limited provider infection rate as evidenced by our low sero-positivity rate amongst healthcare providers when multiple team members tested positive and unknowingly exposed other team members in the department.