All UNC Health HCP now have the option to wear an N95 using the extended reuse N95 guidance up to 5 shifts* when providing close, direct patient care to any patient who is unable to wear a mask.
With the continued rise of COVID cases in our community to unprecedented levels and because of the incredible work by many to secure and be careful stewards of our personal protective equipment, we are pleased to announce that:
All UNC Health HCP now have the option to wear an N95 using the extended reuse N95 guidance up to 5 shifts* when providing close, direct patient care (within <6 feet for at least 15 cumulative minutes) to any patient who is unable to wear a mask.
*When caring for a COVID-19 positive patient or PUI, N95s are single use only.
In accordance with Universal Pandemic Precautions this guidance also applies to staff who have received the COVID-19 vaccine. While both vaccines are very effective, they are not 100% effective in preventing symptomatic disease, and the vaccine is not yet proven to reduce transmission which can occur asymptomatically. Mask use will continue to be an essential tool to prevent COVID-19 transmission.