Thread by @HeidiNBC

Exclusive: Head of largest org for ER Docs tells @NBCNews:

Quality of protective gear for U.S. docs/nurses roughly comparable to that of nations like Italy and others that have seen surging infection rates.

nbcnews.com/news/us-news/p…

Doctors, nurses and other medical staff have been forced repeatedly to reuse masks, goggles and gloves, Jaquis said, while wearing standard surgical gowns instead of Tyvek hazmat suits that would better repel fluids and germs.

The warning from Dr. William Jaquis,

president of American College of Emergency Physicians comes after some leaders, incl. NY Gov. Cuomo, have indicated supply of masks, gloves and goggles is adequate in the near term.

👉That's true only bcz hospitals have so sharply lowered their standards in coping w the crisis

List of measures docs and nurses are taking, according to ACEP:

--bleaching and reusing masks meant for one-time use
--front desk workers sew ribbons on them after the elastic straps have worn off.
--wearing rain gear or masks typically used by construction workers

--some have inquired about scuba masks.
--doctors are also looking into microwaving gear or using ultraviolet light to sterilize it, as well as do-it-yourself mask construction.