The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter providing updated guidance for healthcare facilities on optimizing the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) amid severe shortages. The letter advises facilities to review the CDC's PPE optimization strategies, including extended use and reuse. Facilities should consider designating specific areas for COVID-19 patients and dedicated healthcare personnel for extended use of PPE. Extended use refers to wearing the same PPE for multiple patient encounters without removal. Contingency and crisis strategies may be required during PPE shortages, with PPE prioritized for high-risk procedures. Facilities should also consider reprocessing and reusing face shields and eye protection, and using cloth isolation gowns that can be laundered.

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