Understanding face shield maintenance practical steps to insure cleanliness and optical clarity
Since most dental health care workers are expected to reuse their face shields, it is important to understand how to clean and disinfect this personal protective equipment (PPE). Proper and effective cleaning is a hot topic online.
Since most dental health care workers are expected to reuse their face shields, it is important to understand how to clean and disinfect this personal protective equipment (PPE). Proper and effective cleaning is a hot topic online.
Plastic face shields
The actual face shield material is some type of plastic, but that is where the similarity ends. Shields are made with a variety of materials, including polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate (also known as PET or polyester). Some materials are more rigid than others and some shields are more scratch-resistant, prolonging the overall life of the shield. Optical clarity in a plastic shield is also critical.
Basic cleaning and disinfecting tidbits
To avoid creating surface scratches, submerge the face shield in warm water to dislodge particulate matter. Adding a mild liquid dish, like Dawn, reduces surface tension, and allows the soapy water to evenly disperse across the surface. A soft cloth or sponge can be used to gently clean the shield. Rinse the shield in clear water and dry with a soft cotton towel or a microfiber cloth. Remember soap and water removes microbes on our hands, so it will work on your shield as well.
Some clinicians also wish to use a surface disinfectant wipe or spray, but these products can leave a visible residue, which then needs to be removed. Time also matters when it comes to disinfectant solutions. Strictly follow the specific product directions for use to ensure complete disinfection. While a quick wipe may seem efficient, the contact time must be a followed. The required wet contact time can range from thirty seconds to as long as four minutes. A 70% alcohol wipe will also disinfect and keep plastic surfaces clear, but it is critical to remove the bioburden prior to disinfecting.
Some clinicians also wish to use a surface disinfectant wipe or spray, but these products can leave a visible residue, which then needs to be removed. Time also matters when it comes to disinfectant solutions. Strictly follow the specific product directions for use to ensure complete disinfection. While a quick wipe may seem efficient, the contact time must be a followed. The required wet contact time can range from thirty seconds to as long as four minutes. A 70% alcohol wipe will also disinfect and keep plastic surfaces clear, but it is critical to remove the bioburden prior to disinfecting.
Damaging a face shield
Avoid using household cleaners that contain ammonia or products formulated to clean glass surfaces. Cleaners like these have the potential to damage plastic surfaces resulting in a permanently cloudy surface. Commercial cleaners that contain any type of grit are also contraindicated, including toothpaste. Avoid using paper towels, which can create microscopic scratches.
If you are worried that a specific cleaner or disinfectant might damage your face shield it is easy to run a compatibility test. Apply a small amount of the product in an inconspicuous place on the shield, such as the edge. To avoid an oops moment, make sure the test area is out of your line of sight.
If you are worried that a specific cleaner or disinfectant might damage your face shield it is easy to run a compatibility test. Apply a small amount of the product in an inconspicuous place on the shield, such as the edge. To avoid an oops moment, make sure the test area is out of your line of sight.
Patient eye protection
In addition to face shields, many clinicians offer patients protective eyewear or goggles. Most likely this practice will become more common. Patient eye protection can be cleaned and disinfected in the same way as our shields. Once dry, store the protective eyewear in individual zip lock bags. Patients are bound to appreciate this additional consideration.
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