The demand for surgical masks, surgical and isolation gowns, and surgical suits may overtake the supply available to healthcare organisations during the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to this increased demand, the Department of Health including the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Office of Health Protection (OHP) has prepared the following information to assist healthcare organisations as they update their operating procedures during the outbreak.
Recommendations
For surgical masks, gloves and gowns, the OHP and TGA suggest that health professionals follow the recommendations below, based on the supply needs of their healthcare organisations.
- Be aware that shortages may occur and plan accordingly in a composed manner.
- Masks, gloves and gowns intended by the manufacturer for use in an Australian hospital setting should be included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). It is advised that you source your supplies bearing this in mind.
- Masks, gloves and gowns not intended by the manufacturer for use in a hospital or clinical setting are not required to be included in the ARTG, even if they are used in a hospital or clinical setting.
- Use masks, gloves and gowns according to labelling/Instructions for Use (IFU).
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