Exploring the Barriers to Proper Management of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) During a Pandemic in Hospitals
Margaret Ajuwon *
Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Morgan State University, Baltimore, USA.
Guangming Chen
Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, Morgan State University, Baltimore, USA.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Effective management of personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings is critical, especially during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify barriers to effective PPE utilization and assess the impact of training frequency on PPE management.
Methods: Using quantitative and qualitative analyses, the study evaluated 100 survey responses and performed a chi-square test to examine associations between role types and training frequencies.
Results: Findings revealed that only 59% of respondents received yearly PPE training, with inadequate preparation, insufficient knowledge, and high costs identified as primary barriers.
Conclusion: Addressing these barriers through improved training and resource management is essential for enhancing PPE effectiveness and ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and patients.
Keywords: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), pandemic, PPE shortages, hypothesis, healthcare workers, PPE management