What should be done with PPE after use?

PPE, or personal protective equipment, is crucial for ensuring safety in medical and laboratory settings by preventing the spread of infectious agents. After use, it is imperative that PPE be disposed of carefully to avoid contamination. This means placing used PPE in designated biohazard containers to ensure that it does not come into contact with other surfaces or individuals, thereby mitigating the risk of spreading pathogens.

Proper disposal protocols are established to protect healthcare workers, patients, and the environment. Reusing PPE without decontamination can lead to increased risk of infection. Similarly, simply washing and storing them for future use can compromise their effectiveness and is not typically recommended for single-use items. Leaving them in the patient's room poses a significant risk of contaminating other areas, as it can act as a vector for pathogens.

By disposing of PPE in a controlled manner, healthcare facilities can maintain a safer environment and support the overall goal of infection prevention and control.