GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Spectrum Health is taking steps to "conserve" its supply of personal protection equipment amid the coronavirus oubreak.
The move could allow the health system to preserve its supply of PPE, including N95 masks, "by tenfold" during a time of "national shortages," according to Spectrum Health today.
Spectrum said it is adopting disinfection practices used by "clinical and research teams" across the country.
Between shifts, N95 masks are being disinfected with aerosolized hydrogen peroxide and heat.
The use of N95 masks has "grown significantly" and will "only increase as the pandemic continues."
Ultraviolet light is also being used to sanitize goggles, face shields and other "hard-surface items."
“We know we have to help support our clinicians, keeping them safe, so they can care for our patients and our community during this pandemic,” said Kurt Knoth, VP of supply chain, Spectrum Health.
“We formed incredible innovative partnerships, both internally and externally, to help achieve this goal.”
One of Spectrum's partners is Zeeland-based Gentex, a diversified manufacturer. Gentex donated four ovens, which are used for heat disinfection.
Spectrum said it is still accepting medical supply donations.
