4.8 Putting on or removing goggles or a face‐shield

The purpose of goggles or a face‐shield is to protect the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth from body fluid droplets generated during aerosol‐generating procedures or surgery with power tools.

Essential equipment

  • Reusable or disposable goggles or face‐shield

Pre‐procedure

ActionRationale

  1. 1.
    Remove eye protection from any packaging with clean hands.
    To prevent cross‐contamination. E
  2. 2.
    Apply demister solution according to the manufacturer's instructions, if required.
    To ensure good visibility throughout the procedure. E

Procedure

  1. 3.
    Position the goggles/face‐shield over the eyes and/or face and secure using ear pieces or a headband; adjust to fit (Action figure 4.27).
    To ensure the item is comfortable to wear and remains in the correct position throughout the procedure. E
  2. 4.
    At the end of the procedure, remove by grasping the ear pieces or headband at the back or side of the head and lifting forward, away from the face. Do not touch the front of the goggles/face‐shield.
    To avoid contaminating the hands with material from the outside of the eye protection (DH [23], C).

Post‐procedure

  1. 5.
    Dispose of used disposable items as ‘hazardous infectious waste’ as per local policy.
    All waste contaminated with blood, body fluids, excretions, secretions and/or infectious agents thought to pose a particular risk should be disposed of as hazardous infectious waste (DH [25], C).
  2. 6.
    Clean reusable items according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually with detergent and water or a detergent wipe.
    To avoid cross‐contamination and ensure the item is suitable for further use. E
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Figure 4.27  Application and removal of protective eye goggles.
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Figure 4.27  Application and removal of protective eye goggles.