CDC Covid-19 Do’s & Don’ts

To avoid misinformation, see these CDC-recommended Do’s and Don’ts to protect yourself and your family from the coronavirus.

CDC Covid-19 Infection Prevention Do’s and Don’ts

Wearing gloves in common areas:

Not only does this practice misuse much-needed supplies, but it can also discourage appropriate hand hygiene and may increase the spread of viruses.

Using physical barriers such as a window divider at the check-in desk:

Controls like this are recommended by the CDC along with leveraging phone and video technologies as an alternative to face-to-face contact whenever possible.

Wearing a medical face mask (procedural or surgical mask) at all times while in the practice:

The CDC advised this may be considered in areas with substantial impact. Supplies must be available to provide source control (i.e. place on patients that are suspected of having COVID-19) and protection for healthcare providers with direct contact.

Using unapproved/untested masks such as fabric or home-made masks:

Washable homemade face masks may create hazards to yourself and others. It is not a recommended practice.

Wearing a medical face mask during care of the patient with known or suspected COVID-19 (when N95 mask is unavailable):

Per the CDC, medical face masks do offer some protection and may be used to perform essential duties when an N95 or other respirator is not available. Please practice with caution. Even when a facemask is used during direct contact, it is still considered an exposure.

Disposing of unexpired cleaning supplies:

Please be careful to note the expiration dates as some supplies are ineffective after expiration and continue routine practices related to disposal.

Protecting medical supplies assigning centralized inventory and order:

This is a recommended practice by the CDC.

Hoarding, taking, or other misuses of medical supplies:

For the safety of healthcare providers and patients, it is extremely important these supplies are available for essential health care tasks.

Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). www.cdc.gov/COVID19