Personal protection is a big part of the caregiving field. You may see it in places such as hospitals, and it should be seriously considered when taking care of an individual. Here is a summary of some of the items available through Caregifters you should consider to protect yourself.
GLOVES
One of the most important items you can use to protect yourself. They come in many sizes and styles; latex or vinyl; powdered, light powdered or no powder; sterile and non-sterile, Why would you use one kind over another? Take a look:
Powdered latex: As a general rule powdered latex gloves are the best choice because they are the least expensive. Most of them have "light" powder and have the type of powder that would reduce incidence of skin sensitivity reactions. 
Powder-free latex: These gloves are a good choice for those that have skin sensitivity to the powders used in powdered and "light powder" gloves.
Vinyl or synthetic: These gloves are a good choice for those who have skin sensitivity to
latex, which is a natural rubber. They come in powdered and powder-free for the same reasons as stated above.
As a general rule, non-sterile gloves are acceptable in the home care field.
MASKS
Protect yourself and others with a face mask. Masks can be important for the simple reason you have a cold and don't want to or expose others to your germs. They come in a few different styles (some have latex straps) and will tie behind the head, while others have over the ear design. A simple all-purpose mask can filter out 99% of the wearer's exhaled airborne bacteria helping to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria. These are even great if you need relief from household and yard dust.
CPR Mouth Barrier
Are trained to give CPR? If you are, you may be interested in a CPR mouth barrier. These are designed to protect the rescuer and the patient by eliminating fluid contact. They work with a one-way valve that prevents backflow during resuscitation.
Caregifters has these CPR shields in full size or get one to put on your key chain! Either way they are important if you ever plan to help someone in need.
HAND SANITIZERS
Most hand sanitizers will kill transient microorganisms in 15-30 seconds. As a general rule they are no-rinse and act as an instant antimicrobial. They come in gel and wipes. Most will not irritate skin and some have a moisturizing formula. For convenience, they are also available in individual packs for pocket or purse.
LIFTING AND STRAINING
Physically, this can be a huge challenge for a caregiver. Knowing that there are tools available to help manage transferring and moving someone is a great help. Check with Caregifters to find any of the items mentioned below:
Back Supports
If you are lifting heavy items or
bending and straining while repositioning someone, consider the use of extra support provided by a back "belt". Caregifters has the type that is ideal for caregivers with sewn on suspenders and Velcro fasteners so it is easy to loosen when not in use.
Gait/Transfer Belts
These belts are a must for caregivers that assist with ambulation and with transferring from bed to chair. They help to get a grip on the person that is being moved so the caregiver does not have to strain to hold on. They are used around the midsection and are about 2 inches wide and 54" long (also available in 72" length). They are usually adjustable with plastic side releases on the buckle. Most transfer belts are washable
OTHER PROTECTION
For situations that warrant extreme protection such as highly contagious diseases, there is various protective wear available from Caregifters. These include extra-protection face masks, protective glasses and goggles, bouffant caps, shoe covers and isolation gowns.
Caregifters Caregiver Tips
• Check for proper disposal such as a sharp safety container if your client uses lancets, needles or syringes
• Use proper hand washing techniques to avoid the spread of infection and disease
• Dispose of contaminated products such as blood soaked gauze in sealed plastic bags.
• Roll incontinence products correctly and dispose of in the proper container
• Soak, wash and sanitize clothing and bedding that has been contaminated by blood, urine and/or fecal matter
• Practice proper lifting techniques using your legs
• Remember your training in universal precautions
• Remember to call Caregifters for additional product information
Reprint only with permission from
Caregifters Medical Supplies - 805.553.0441 or toll free 1.866.825.8557
FAX (805) 553-0784 - Email: JT@Caregifters.com - www.caregifters.com - PO Box 588, Moorpark, CA 93020
