Perspective

I am trying to be helpful. I appreciate the return of Americans to their families at home.

There were a lot of numbers tossed out during the update about the country's preparation. This NEED is not normal. Below is an entry on the net by a nurse as to the number of gloves he uses during a NORMAL day in a Step-Down unit.

I actually think he should be using a few more, but, that is me.

I strongly suggest the Governors and FEMA receive reports in regard to inventory and NEED through Directors of Nursing and/or Vice Presidents of Nursing for the hospitals involved. I am confident the leadership of any nursing department in the country is now taking serious look at the potential need for PPE.

I wish everyone great skill and a bit of luck in their patient care. 

For a 12-hour daytime shift: (click here)

Start of shift nursing handoff report - 1 pair
Morning toileting - 2 pairs
Morning medications - 3 pairs
Turning patient & checking for moisture, daytime toileting - 10 pairs
Noon insulin - 1 pair
Afternoon heparin - 1 pair
Dinner insulin - 1 pair
End of shift nursing handoff report - 1 pair

Total: 20 pairs minimum in 12 hours

Add: 1–2 pairs for each lab collection.
Add 1–2 pairs for each imaging in room or transfer.
Add 1–2 pairs for dressing changes.
Add 3 pairs if the RN obtains vitals instead of a Nursing Assistant.
Add 3 pairs if the RN obtains Point of Care glucometer samples.

Total additional pairs: 9–12

GRAND TOTAL: About 30 pairs of gloves maximum, 20 pairs minimum FOR A SINGLE PATIENT x 4 patient load for a PCU (Stepdown) or MedSurg unit = 80–120 gloves per 12 hour shift.