What is Barrier Nursing?

Definition, Uses, Procedures and Directions.

Definition

Used to address highly epidemic/contagious diseases.

Management of diseases which have no existing cure.

Creates a barrier to isolate contagious patient.

Uses

Care and treatment of patients with deadly, contagious diseases which have no treatment options; giving control the main purpose of this practice.

Provides protection for other patients and medical personnel; not infected with the virus.

Directions

Nurse wears pressurised PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) suit with breathing apparatus and body protection material.

Gloves are worn for routine care; to be disposable.

Transport of patient should be minimal; covering colonised/contaminated areas and cleaning surfaces is required.

Protective face-masks required for airborne germs

Infection Control: Methods

Aseptic technique: Reduces bacteria spread. e.g. Hand washing Isolation: Isolates infected patient, prevents airborne bacterial spread

and protects immune-suppressed patient. Blade safety: Avoid infected blood contact, contracting pathogen

through own wound. Linen handling, disposal: Protects from bacteria present in patient’s

skin, contact with it through touching linen. Waste disposal: Prevents spread through medical waste; highly

dangerous. Risk assessment: Analyse every procedure in terms of risk of

contracting the pathogen. Staff health: Upon any anomaly in personal health, everything should

be reported to superiors.

Cleaning Spills

Every spill in such situations is dangerous. Area of spill should be covered with

hypochlorite solution. Clean area with warm water and detergent,

wait or drying. Waste=Clinical waste; yellow sack for proper

hospital procedures.

Risk Management

Routine care= Minimal risk Low-risk=Requires gloves and plastic apron. High-risk/Contact, Liquid splash, Waste

disposal= Wear gloves, mask, apron, eye protection.

PPE required for prolonged exposure and operations.

Staff Health

High risk and moderate chance to contract and spread infection.

Immunisation is required upon contract with restrictions to pregnant, non-immunised staff.

Cover lesions with water-proof dressing. Seek advice if experiencing symptoms. Report accidents and incidents.