School nurses, healthcare personnel and school personnel who are providing care for anyone with confirmed COVID-19, exhibiting COVID-19 like symptoms, or there is anticipated risk of splash or exposure to secretions should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including goggles or a face shield for eye protection.
The role of the school nurse is to assist with school staff access to training and education for appropriate selection and wearing of PPE, including eye protection.
Key considerations:
- Goggles and face shields are primarily used for eye protection for the individuals wearing them ensuring the eyes, nose, and mouth are protected from exposure to respiratory secretions.
- CDC does not currently recommend use of face shields as a substitute for masks.
- Consider use of a face shield for individuals who must wear a face shield instead of a mask (e.g. people who are deaf or hard of hearing—or those who care for or interact with a person who is hearing impaired).
- The following face shields may provide better source control than others:
- Face shields that wrap around the sides of the wearer’s face and extend below the chin.
- Hooded face shields.
- Face shield and goggles wearers should wash their hands before and after removing the face shield and avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth when removing it.
- Disposable face shields should only be worn for a single use and disposed of according to manufacturer instructions.
- Reusable face shields and goggles should be cleaned and disinfected after each use according to manufacturer instructions or by following CDC face shield cleaning instructions.
NASN Resources
Guidance for Healthcare Personnel on the Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Schools During COVID-19
CDC Resources
Strategies for Optimizing the Supply of Eye Protection: COVOD-19
Eye Safety - Eye Protection for Infection Control
Resources Shared by School Nurses
See what school nurses have developed or are sharing in NASN's online discussions.