Observational Study on the Appropriate Use of Personal Protective Equipment During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Italian Experience

Abstract

Introduction. During the COVID-19 pandemic, operating room nurses were at high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, making the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) essential to ensure staff safety and reduce viral transmission. This study aimed to evaluate operating room nurses' adherence to national recommendations on PPE use, investigate the association between PPE selection and COVID-19 infection, and assess nurses' involvement in developing perioperative COVID-19 protocols.

Methods. A cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted in 2021 using an online survey distributed through the Italian Association of Operating Room Nurses (AICO). Data from 153 operating room nurses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results. Most participants appropriately selected FFP2/FFP3 respirators and eye protection. Twelve nurses (7.8%) reported COVID-19 infection. Greater operating room experience was associated with infection, whereas no significant association emerged between PPE selection and infection. Only 36% of participants were involved in developing COVID-19 protocols.

Discussion. Operating room nurses generally adhered to national PPE recommendations. However, limited involvement in protocol development highlights the need to strengthen frontline staff participation in organizational decision-making during future infectious disease emergencies.