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PPE 'shortage' still being felt in B.C. seniors care: survey

While there has been some improvement in the supply of personal protective equipment for those working in B.C.
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PPE items.

While there has been some improvement in the supply of personal protective equipment for those working in B.C.’s long-term care, assisted living, home care and community living sectors, a survey of SafeCare BC members suggests that 42% have less than a three days’ supply.

The home support sector is feeling the impact even more with 53% of respondents from that sector having less than a three days’ supply.

Of the 543 respondents from all from all health regions, the results confirmed:

  • 42%say they have three days or less supply of personal protective equipment, as compared to 69% in the April 11 survey.
  • 27% of care providers say they three days or less of surgical masks. This is an improvement from the April 11 survey, in which 38% reported having three days or less.
  • 42%of care providers say they have no protective gowns (15%) or only a three-day supply (27%).
  • 32% of care providers have either no eye protection (13%),or enough to last three days (19%).
  • 40% of care providers anticipate running out of gloves within a week.
  • 51%anticipate running out of hand sanitizer within a week.

SafeCare BC is an association of care providers.

Last month, the group enlisted the public’s help with the establishment of Operation Protect to invite businesses and individuals to donate personal protective equipment for our health care heroes. Not surprisingly, British Columbians have responded to the call with 485 donors so far donating almost 600,000 pieces of equipment.

“It is inspiring to see the community come together and support health-care workers by donating supplies and equipment needed to keep them and the people they care for safe,” said Jen Lyle, CEO, SafeCare BC. “But there is a very real need for more equipment. No health-care worker should have to wonder if there will be enough protective equipment for them.”