RCOphth updates PPE guidance on slit lamp use

Grafton Optical Universal Breath Shield

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) has updated its advice to ophthalmologists on personal protective equipment (PPE), and now recommend that clinicians should wear standard surgical masks when examining or treating patients at the slit lamp.

Gowns and gloves are not recommended. They also recommend that plastic breath shields attached to slit lamps provide some protection, but must be disinfected between patients, as studies show that the Covid-19 virus is viable for up to 72 hours on plastic surfaces.

In addition, they recommend that ophthalmologists should avoid speaking at the slit lamp.

In light of this, the College of Optometrists is advising that optometrists seeing patients should follow this guidance.

The College stated: “We recognise, though, that PPE is in short supply across the UK, and that optometrists may not always be able to access surgical masks. It is also important that we protect colleagues who are in direct contact with patients by not using masks when they are not needed. If no PPE is available, we recommend that optometrists follow the guidance in our FAQs on adapting your practice to minimise contact with patients.

“The College is working with the other UK optical bodies to raise this issue with national governments, to ensure that optometrists and other primary eyecare staff are provided with appropriate PPE so that they can meet the urgent and essential eye care needs of their patients and protect themselves and their communities.”

Read the latest RCOphth guidance here.

Breath shields supply

Grafton Optical is supplying its Universal Slit Lamp Breath Shield via its online shop. Constructed of durable 2mm clear perspex for easy cleaning between patients, the shield fits over slit lamp eyepieces to fit most models. It leaves enough room to adjust eyepiece PD, allow access to the slit lamp joystick and make the use of Volk lenses easier, said the company, adding that it also helped to maintain suitable distance requirements for infection control.

Louis Stone Optical despatched orders for 5,000 large and small slit lamp breath shields last week, and a large amount of chin rest paper and alcohol instrument cleaning pads. The company stated it had also secured a large consignment of material to make more shields. It advised customers to check its website for the latest updates and orders.

Other optical suppliers are welcome to contact DO Online to share stock information. Email ncollinson@abdo.uk.com