Doffing: Role Clarity for Doffing Assistant

In cases where you will be assisting a colleague wearing a PAPR, or an N95 Respirator combined with a coverall, a third person will be needed. It is your role, as the Trained Observer, to ensure this person – called a Doffing Assistant – is available and also wearing appropriate PPE. The doffing assistant should be well-trained on the protocols as well.

Remaining outside the doffing area, you will observe and guide as a Doffing Assistant inspects the health care provider for any signs of contamination. Any areas that are identified as contaminated should be disinfected using approved wipes.

The Doffing Assistant is to provide a minimum of direct assistance to the health care provider. If they do assist the healthcare provider directly, it is your job to ensure they immediately perform hand hygiene.

In cases where you will be assisting a colleague wearing an N95 Respirator combined with a gown, your role, as the Trained Observer, is to guide their doffing, minimally assisting them if absolutely necessary. Unless assistance is necessary, you will remain outside the doffing area, guiding and pacing without coming into contact with your colleague. If you do provide assistance you must immediately perform hand hygiene.