Transport of COVID confirmed/suspected Patients

The National guidance for the transportation of confirmed COVID-19 cases enables the following:

• Any double crewed ambulances can convey these patients. This includes Patient Transport Services where both mobility and acuity are identified as suitable, including normal contractual journeys.

• For patients being transported to a specialist infectious disease facility or complex patient situation, then this will typically be undertaken the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART).
 
Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 
For the transport of patients without aerosol generated procedures (AGP) then you should use; gloves, apron, surgical facemasks and based on a risk of splash consider eye protection. This level of protection has been identified as appropriate by professionals at Public Health England and aligned with national guidance. 
 
For the transport of patient where AGPs are being performed then double gloves, fluid repellent coverall, FFP3 respirator and eye protection. 
 
PPE Summary Table: 

	Close patient contact – possible or confirmed case	AGP – possible and confirmed
Hand hygiene	✓	✓
Gloves	✓	✓
Plastic apron	✓	X
Fluid repellent	X	✓
Fluid repellent surgical facemask	✓	X
FFP3/ PRPH	X	✓
Eye protection	Risk assessment	✓ (included with PRPH)

 The COVID-19 Operations Support line is currently able to provide latest guidance on this and can be contacted on 01234 243260 between 8am – 12am, 7 days a week.

Further information on COVID-19 in a single place is available on Need to Know. Need to Know is accessible on all devices.

This update can be downloaded as a PDF file using the link below.

Published 26 March 2020