Revised Ebola gear guidelines for US health workers call for head-to-toe coverage

Health care workers should be completely covered — no skin exposed — while caring for Ebola patients, according to revised guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The government agency tightened its guidance after two Dallas nurses became infected with the virus while caring for an Ebola patient.

Highlights of the revised guidelines:

— Use face shield, gown or coverall, boot cover and double gloves

— Wear hood to completely cover the head and neck

— Use respirator, not goggles

— Put on waterproof apron if patient is vomiting or has diarrhea

— Designate area for putting on and taking off gear

— Have trained monitor supervise the putting on and removal of gear

— Use disinfectant wipes on contaminated gear before removing

— Disinfect gloved hands between steps while taking off gear

— Conduct repeated training for using protective gear

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Online:

http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/