PPE & Infection Control

What to Do Next

Use this guidance if a visit involves multiple tasks or you’re moving between different types of care.

When to stop and reset

Always stop to:

  • Change gloves between personal care and other tasks

  • Wash hands after removing PPE

  • Change PPE between tasks involving different risks

  • Remove PPE before food preparation

What to do

  1. Pause between tasks, even during short visits

  2. Remove and dispose of PPE correctly

  3. Wash hands thoroughly before continuing

  4. Put on fresh PPE if required for the next task

  5. Never reuse gloves or continue wearing them between tasks

Common risk moments

  • Moving from personal care to food or drinks

  • Tidying after continence support

  • Helping with mobility then touching surfaces

  • End-of-visit tasks

When to report

Report to the office if:

  • You’re unsure when PPE should be changed

  • PPE supplies are low or missing

  • The care plan doesn’t reflect infection risks

Remember

  • Gloves are single-task, not single-visit

  • Hand hygiene is required even when gloves are worn

  • Familiar routines can hide infection risks