How to Protect Yourself as an Independent Healthcare Worker

Are you an independent healthcare worker? Do you want to be sure you’re taking all the measures necessary to keep yourself and others healthy? Over the past year or so the COVID-19 pandemic has really highlighted the importance of proper protection both from the healthcare standpoint and the patient view, and it has caused people to re-think what they may have thought of as adequate protection in the past and look for ways to increase their level of safety.

Here we’ll take a look at how independent healthcare workers can protect themselves and ensure that no matter what situation they are in, they are as safe as possible.

Familiarize Yourself with the Four Levels of PPE

As an independent healthcare worker it is important you recognize that PPE comes in four different levels, and then be aware of when each level is recommended. The four levels are level A, B, C, and D. Level A is meant for environments that are the most hazardous and includes protection for your eyes, skin, and respiratory system. On the flip side level D is meant for those situations where the lowest level of hazards is present.

You’ll always need to know what kind of situation you are working in, the level of hazard so that you can choose the proper PPE.

Ensure PPE Is Always Well-Stocked

As an independent healthcare worker, it will also be up to you to ensure your PPE supplies are always well-stocked. You don’t want to risk running out of essential items and then just going without, or having to re-use single-use items. This will not meet health and safety guidelines, and you won’t be keeping yourself safe.

Follow Proper Hand Hygiene Guidelines

While this tip may seem overly simple the fact is that it is a sound piece of advice and will help to keep you safe. Following proper hand hygiene guidelines can protect you from a variety of viruses. When wearing surgical gloves, you always want to be sure you wash your hands before you put them on, and then after you take them off.

There Should Be a Focus on Sanitization and Disinfection

Be sure to also put a focus on the sanitization and disinfection of tools, equipment, surfaces, and any linens/bedding (if applicable).

Don’t Be Afraid to Voice Concerns

The final tip is to make sure you feel confident in voicing any concerns or reservations you may have. It’s always better to speak up so that you can work on a better solution that protects not just you, but all involved. If there is a situation that makes you feel unsafe, then it’s worth talking to your client/customer/patient about. Perhaps a few extra measures or added protection gear would be all it takes to remedy the situation.

By following each of these tips, and making sure you always take the proper precautions, you will be able to stay as safe and healthy as possible in your job as an independent healthcare worker.