Eye protection required with continuous mask for those in direct contact with asymptomatic patients.

To further lower exposure risk from asymptomatic patients, CDC has recommended continuous facemasks with eye protection, particularly when the patient is not masked. To align with CDC guidance, VMC is adding "eye protection" to required continuous PPE in all ambulatory settings when entering any patient room or performing patient care tasks, regardless of COVID status. Previously, eye protection was available on a voluntary basis for ambulatory staff, this has been changed to required.

Eye protection includes either goggles or face shields, which can be worn for more than one patient encounter, disinfected with hospital-grade disinfectant wipes and reused by the same employee until damaged. Supplies will be available in each area no later than Tuesday, Dec 8.