Infection prevention and control: Guideline for speech pathologists, Version 1,2020.

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Single-Use • Single-use PPE should be removed and disposed of appropriately and not reused (see Section 5.7). • Change gloves between each client and perform hand hygiene each time. • Replace surgical and respirator masks when they become contaminated, soiled, damaged, damp/wet, if the correct fit is not maintained or engaging with suspected or confirmed clients outside client care area (note the length of continuous duration may also be a factor depending on the infectious agent). • Discard respirators after an Aerosol Generating Procedure (AGP). • Masks should not be re-worn if pulled down or removed. Reuse • Any instrument or piece of equipment (e.g., nasendoscope) requires reprocessing (cleaned, disinfected or sterilisation) before it is safe to reuse 9. • The minimum level of reprocessing required depends on the individual situation (e.g., the body site and nature by which the instrument will be used). • Reusable eye protection (e.g., safety goggles or face shields) needs to be cleaned and disinfected as per non-critical medical device procedures before reused. • Reusing single-use surgical masks or respirators (with or without reprocessing) is not recommended 12,38,41,42. • If single-use masks and gowns need to be reused, they must undergo reprocessing to ensure adequate cleaning and disinfectant procedures occur. • Check the manufacturer’s instructions for reprocessing recommendations or if considered single use as many products are not suitable for reuse. Extended Use • Most appropriate for masks or eye protection if left in-situ when interacting with non- infectious clients or infectious clients within the same isolated care or waiting area. • Single-use surgical masks or respirators (with or without reprocessing) is not recommended 41,42. • Extended use is favoured over reuse to reduce contract transmission risk as a result of touching associated PPE. • Goggles and face shields, surgical masks and gowns can be worn for up to four hours unless damp, soiled or after assisting with AGPs and/or aerosol generating behaviours. Client use • Explain to clients why infection prevention and control precaution practices and PPE are in use. • Advise that practices are to protect everyone from infection. • Consider providing a PPE guide for clients and visitors. • Use clinical judgement to guide if it is appropriate, ask clients to wear a surgical mask: o If coughing/sneezing and other signs and symptoms of infectious, transmissible disease transmitted by airborne or droplet modes. o Where droplet or airborne precautions are in place in the community and the client is not able to control their expulsion.

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Infection Prevention and Control - Guideline for Speech Pathologists | Version 1, 2020