EFFECTS OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND HAND WASHING /SANITIZERS ON THE SKIN OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare workers (HCWs) wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and use hand sanitizers in addition to frequent hand washing during work time which is one of the fundamental infection control guidelines to prevent different hospital infections. The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic urged the use of PPE for longer periods and the more frequent hand washing/ or disinfectants use which attributed to the development of skin adverse effects as contact dermatitis. Aim of Work: To estimate the prevalence of adverse skin diseases due to the use PPE and sanitizers and their associated factors among HCWs in Mansoura University Hospital, Egypt. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was done in Mansoura University Hospital, Egypt; among HCWs who were subjected to personal interview to collect socio-demographic data, occupational history, medical history and the frequency of PPE, hand washing and sanitizers/alcohol use. Dermatological examination was done for the whole body; with using dermoscope (dermalite Hud) when needed. Results: The overall prevalence of dermatological disorders among the participants was 23.2%. Working >8 hours /day, wearing apron and Alcohol/antiseptic rubbing >10 times/day were independent significant predictors of PPE use and hand washing/ sanitizers dermatoses { AOR(95% CI): 9.1(3.4-24.3), 5.9(2.5-13.6)