Page updated 30 April 2007
Protective Clothing Guidance
Plastic Aprons
The general use of plastic aprons for protection of clothing is increasing due to the lack of an integral apron in the nurses' uniform, and the introduction of a non-uniform policy in certain areas.
To ensure that aprons are used correctly, a system of colour-coded aprons has been introduced in most organisations. Where available, yellow / pink (depending on your local hospital) plastic aprons should be worn for nursing patients in Source Isolation and should come into contact with only one patient. Yellow / pink (depending on your local hospital) aprons should not be used for other purposes. Plastic aprons should not be used for general duties.
White plastic aprons may be worn to protect the carers' clothing from moisture or soiling. Aprons used for these purposes must be discarded after contact with each patient.
Disposal of Plastic Aprons
Aprons must be removed and discarded appropriately. Hands should then be washed and dried or decontaminated with alcohol gel.
In some units (Intensive Care Units) all staff may be asked to wear aprons but they should change aprons when attending to another patient.
Colour coded aprons are used at each bed space in the Intensive Care Unit.
Aprons used for Source Isolation or that have been contaminated with blood or body fluids should be discarded immediately into a yellow clinical waste bag.
Aprons used for other purposes should be discarded into a black bag for domestic waste.
Face Protection
Goggles and visors must be worn to prevent splashing of body fluids into the eye when performing risky procedures.
Masks
Surgical masks do not protect against aerosol inhalation but may protect against splashes in surgery.
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