Intermountain isn’t changing PPE recommendations for caregivers in Utah because our data shows our current approach is safe and effective. But please be diligent about following PPE guidelines, especially considering the delta variant of COVID-19 is more transmissible. Remember to:
- Wear an N95 mask and eye protection in situations where it’s required, such as when performing aerosolizing procedures.
- Take precautions in the community and at home—this is where transmission rates are highest.
- Keep in mind you always have a choice to wear an N95 for respiratory protection. If you have questions, talk with your local Employee Health caregiver.
Because of both Federal and State OSHA plans, caregivers in Idaho and Nevada will see a difference in their PPE guidelines:
- Caregivers in Idaho are required to wear an N95 respirator when seeing COVID-positive patients and suspected COVID-positive patients based on their Federal OSHA plan.
- Caregivers in Nevada are required to wear an N95 respirator when seeing COVID-positive patients and suspected COVID-positive patients based on their State OSHA plan.
The State of Utah is evaluating the OSHA PPE recommendations. The guidance for caregivers in Utah hasn’t changed.
Caregivers in Utah may choose to wear an N95 respirator when seeing patients who are COVID-positive or who have pending tests or symptoms. Although current PPE guidelines recommend wearing a procedure mask and a face shield when seeing COVID-19 patients, you have a choice to wear an N95 if you feel more comfortable.
“Our current data shows procedure masks, combined with the other recommended PPE keeps caregivers safe,” says Kristin Dascomb, MD, Intermountain’s medical director of infection prevention. “At this time, we aren’t changing our PPE recommendations, and caregivers should continue to follow current PPE guidance.
Intermountain continually evaluates CDC guidelines for PPE along with our current inventory and product availability as items are reordered. If the availability for any PPE item should change, we’ll re-evaluate usage recommendations.
The Supply Chain doesn’t anticipate any supply disruptions for N95 respirators in the future. N95 respirators are supplied and stocked on-site at facilities as we move back to pre-COVID quantities. Because Intermountain has a good supply, if caregivers would like to wear an N95 respirator, they may choose to do so once they’re qualified by Employee Health.
If you have any questions about wearing an N95, please contact Employee Health. They’re always available for N95 fit testing and to answer questions.