How would you respond to a PPE shortage on the unit?

• A. Ignore guidelines and use as needed.
• B. Stop all patient care.
• C. Buying unapproved substitutes.
• D. Prioritize use based on guidelines, conserve where safe, escalate to supply chain, and communicate plans to staff.

Answer: (D)

Facing a PPE shortage requires a structured, safety-first approach that keeps both patients and staff protected. Use PPE according to current infection control guidelines, prioritizing higher-risk procedures and care for patients with suspected or confirmed contagious infections. Conserve where safe by following approved conservation strategies—extended use or limited reuse only when permitted by policy, adjusting workflows to minimize unnecessary use, and using decontamination or other approved methods if applicable. Escalate to the supply chain to obtain replenishment and explore approved alternatives, while keeping contingency plans in place. Communicate the plan clearly to staff, outlining when and what PPE should be used, inventory status and replenishment timelines, and any changes to practice so everyone stays aligned. Continuously monitor inventory and update practices as new guidance or stock becomes available. Ignoring guidelines, halting care, or buying unapproved substitutes would undermine safety and violate policies.