What is Donning?
Donning refers to the process of putting on personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients. It is a critical practice in nursing to prevent the spread of infections and ensure a sterile environment.
Steps for Proper Donning
The steps for proper donning are systematic and should be followed meticulously: Hand Hygiene: Perform hand hygiene using hand sanitizer or soap and water.
Gown: Put on the gown, ensuring that it covers the torso from neck to knees and arms to wrists. Fasten the gown at the back of the neck and waist.
Mask or Respirator: Place the mask over the nose and mouth, securing it under the chin. If using a respirator, perform a user seal check.
Goggles or Face Shield: Place goggles or a face shield over the face and eyes, ensuring a snug fit.
Gloves: Put on gloves, ensuring they cover the cuffs of the gown.
Common Mistakes in Donning
Common mistakes in donning include: Skipping hand hygiene before putting on PPE.
Not securing the gown properly, leaving gaps exposed.
Improper fitting of masks or respirators, leading to inadequate protection.
Forgetting to perform a seal check for respirators.
Gloves not covering the gown cuffs, leaving wrists exposed.
Training and Practice
Effective training and regular practice are vital for ensuring that healthcare workers can don PPE correctly. Simulation exercises and
competency assessments can help reinforce proper techniques and identify areas for improvement.
Special Considerations
In certain situations, such as caring for patients with
highly infectious diseases like COVID-19 or Ebola, additional PPE and more stringent protocols may be required. Healthcare workers must be familiar with the specific guidelines for these scenarios.
Conclusion
Donning is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice that plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe and sterile healthcare environment. By following proper donning procedures and staying updated with training, healthcare professionals can significantly reduce the risk of infection and ensure the well-being of both themselves and their patients.
