Use of PPE and its effectiveness

In a conversation with Dr. Joe Holley, medical director for the Tennessee Department of EMS, Dr. Holley advised that if full universal precautions and PPE are used (exam gloves, gown, N95 mask, and face protection from splash or droplets), and the patient is positive for COVID-19, the universal precautions should be sufficient to protect the wearer, and the patient contact in full PPE would not classify as an exposure to COVID-19/coronavirus. Proper disposal of the used PPE and decon of any equipment used, and the ambulance if the patient is transported, is required.