Why I wear PPE for protection
01.28.2020
"I would not work without it"
Asked about my motivation why I operate with a surgical helmet, I answer now very convinced: To protect my patients and me from potential hospital acquired infections.
Certainly it is a bit more uncomfortable in comparison to not wearing anything, as in the past I would only wear a mask. During that time it was also common for me to remove my glasses because they got foggy. Often during surgery, I would get a large amount of blood-bone mixture splash into my face and eyes during sawing, despite all caution taken to avoid splash. Now – with the optimal protection form the helmet - I know that this is simply impossible. It is a good feeling that I do not want to miss anymore. Now I have been using the helmet for a quite a while and wouldn't work without it.
During the washing and preparation before entering the OR, my colleagues very often smile at me questioning what is on my head. In the past, I have heard comments like: "Are you going to the moon?" Or "Have you become a beekeeper?".
After a brief explanation about the reasons why I use a personal protection equipment helmet, they are very interested in the system and want to know more about it.
They, too, are aware of the fear of becoming infected with diseases by getting the patient's blood into their eyes or being the cause of SSI on the patient.Finally, even the harshest critics are silent when they look at my shield after a successful implantation of a Knee prosthesis. No one likes to have blood or bone particles in his or her face! I also tell them about the obvious benefit for the patient.
This, of course, is that the shield is sterile; in contrast to a mask and my face without protection. If these blood and bone particles touch the mask and fall back towards the surgical field, it certainly is the worst alternative in terms of compliance with asepsis. Thus, I accept the few restrictions that are caused by the helmet in order to drive home with confidence and a good feeling for me and my patients.
All opinions expressed in this blog are solely and exclusively from Dr. Düsing and do not represent Stryker's.
Disclaimers:
1) The Flyte PPE products are not cleared as respiratory protective products. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control guidance for respiratory protection directs the use of an FFP3 respirator mask for medical staff performing Aerosol Generating Procedures.
2) Dr. Düsing is a paid consultant of Stryker. The opinions expressed herein are the opinions of Dr. Düsing and not necessarily those of Stryker. Individual experiences may vary.
3) This information is intended solely for the use of healthcare professionals
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Asked about my motivation why I operate with a helmet, I answer now very convinced: To protect my patients and me from infection.
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This information is intended solely for the use of healthcare professionals.
A healthcare professional must always rely on his or her own professional clinical judgment when deciding whether to use a particular product when treating a particular patient. Stryker does not dispense medical advice and recommends that healthcare professionals be trained in the use of any particular product before using it in surgery. The information presented is intended to demonstrate the breadth of Stryker product offerings. A healthcare professional must always refer to the package insert, product label and/or instructions for use before using any Stryker product.
Products may not be available in all markets because product availability is subject to the regulatory and/or medical practices in individual markets. Please contact your Stryker representative if you have questions about the availability of Stryker products in your area.
Stryker Corporation or its divisions or other corporate affiliated entities own, use or have applied for the following trademarks or service marks: Flyte, Stryker. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners or holders.
The products depicted are CE marked in accordance with applicable EU Regulations and Directives.
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