Personal protective equipment (PPE) in mental health services during the COVID pandemic

Appendix 4A of the CEC Infection Prevention Control Manual also provides general advice on PPE for health staff. The table below is an excerpt from this document.

Appendix 4A: COVID-19 risk assessment guide for PPE selection for direct care patients

Mental Health Services should follow specific Local Health District directives or guidance in relation to PPE. 

PPE to be used when involved in physical restraint of a patient

• P2/N95 respirator for unknown, suspected or confirmed COVID-19 person
• Protective eyewear/face shield
• Gloves
• Disposable fluid repellent gown

PPE to be used when involved in administering electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

• P2/N95 respirator for unknown, suspected or confirmed COVID-19 +ve person
• Protective eyewear/face shield
• Gloves
• Disposable fluid repellent gown