KAISER PERMANENTE – PPE & ATTIRE GUIDELINES FOR INTERPRETERS 

1. Areas Where These Rules Apply

These guidelines must be followed when entering:

• Semi-restricted areas: hallways to ORs, sterile supply corridors, Shared Procedure Unit (SPU), and IR support areas.

• Restricted areas: operating rooms (OR) and interventional radiology (IR) procedure rooms.

Non-restricted areas (admitting, waiting rooms, PACU) do not require special attire unless instructed by staff.

2. Required Attire for Interpreters

Option A: KPWA Scrubs

Interpreters staying longer periods or entering procedural spaces may be asked to wear:

• Clean KP-issued scrubs (top tucked in or fitted).

• KP scrub jacket if wearing long sleeves underneath.

• Scrubs must be changed daily and may not be taken home unless contaminated.

Option B: Single-Use Jumpsuit (Recommended for Interpreters)

For short visits inside OR/procedural areas:

• Wear a disposable jumpsuit provided on-site.

• Replace if soiled, torn, or contaminated.

• Remove and discard before leaving restricted areas.

3. Required PPE

Hair Coverings

• Must cover all hair, including sideburns and neck.

• KP provides disposable bonnets/hoods.

• Religious coverings allowed if they fully cover hair.

Masks

• Wear a surgical mask whenever sterile supplies are open.

• Mask must fully cover nose and mouth.

• Change between cases.

• Do not wear masks hanging on the neck or on top of the head.

Eye Protection

• Required if splashes or sprays may occur (staff will advise).

Shoe Covers

• Required when there is risk of contamination or fluids on the floor.

• Remove before exiting surgical or procedural areas.

4. Prohibited Items

• Jewelry that hangs or cannot be covered (necklaces, large earrings, bracelets).

• Artificial nails, acrylics, gels, shellac, or nail extensions.

• Open-toe or high-heel shoes.

• Backpacks, bags, or purses inside semi-restricted or restricted areas.

• Wearing street clothes under a jumpsuit unless fully covered.

5. Identification

• Interpreters must wear an ID badge visibly on the upper body.

• Badge and holder must be clean.

6. Entering and Exiting the Area

Entering:

1. Put on required attire (scrubs or disposable jumpsuit).

2. Add hair cover, mask, and shoe covers if needed.

3. Perform hand hygiene.

Exiting:

• Remove mask, hair cover, and shoe covers before leaving surgical areas.

• Dispose of jumpsuit before exiting restricted spaces.

• Do not leave the building in scrubs.

7. Quick Reference for Interpreters

• Ask the charge nurse if you are unsure which PPE to wear.

• Disposable jumpsuits are usually acceptable for short-term interpreting.

• Follow all instructions from clinical staff regarding additional PPE.

• Maintain professional, clean appearance at all times.