When to wear gloves, aprons and masks in aged care

Choose PPE for the task

PPE depends on what you're doing and the exposure you expect, not on how the resident looks.

• Toileting, continence care and showering: gloves and an apron.
• Helping with meals: clean hands; gloves aren't usually needed unless there's body fluid risk.
• Wound care: follow the procedure — often gloves and an apron, with clean technique.
• Splash risk (vomiting, suctioning): add a mask and eye protection.
• Residents on transmission-based precautions: follow the door signage exactly.

Change between tasks

Change gloves and aprons between residents and between dirty and clean tasks for the same resident. Clean your hands every time gloves come off.

Common mistakes

• Wearing gloves down the corridor or to answer call bells.
• Keeping the same apron on all shift.
• Pulling a mask under the chin between residents.