Jordan Ellis
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a shortage of medical equipment, including masks, eye protectors, face shields, gowns, and gloves. Volunteers have stepped up to fill this gap by making and donating homemade masks to hospitals and healthcare workers. However, it is important to note that homemade masks may not provide the same level of protection as medical-grade masks and are considered a last resort. Hospitals may use them for patients and healthcare workers with no risk of COVID-19 exposure or in non-healthcare settings. Before donating homemade masks, it is essential to check with local hospitals or organizations about their specific needs and requirements. Some hospitals may not accept homemade masks and instead request medical-grade PPE donations. Online resources, such as Make Masks and Mask Match, can help individuals identify areas in need of homemade masks and provide guidelines for sewing them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can donate homemade masks | Volunteers, local communities, local businesses, grassroots collectives |
| Where to donate homemade masks | Hospitals, local organizations, local businesses, Oakland Public Library, charitable organizations |
| How to donate homemade masks | Via dropbox, by mail, by drop-off |
| Hospitals that accept homemade masks | Kaiser Permanente Oakland, Kaiser Permanente Richmond, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara |
| Hospitals that do not accept homemade masks | Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Health |
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What You'll Learn
Hospitals that accept homemade masks
As hospitals across the world faced a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of them started accepting homemade masks. However, it is important to note that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises doctors and nurses to use homemade masks only as a last resort.
Eskenazi Hospital and Community Health Network in Indiana are currently accepting homemade masks. Brit Heymans, who takes charge of the donations for the Eskenazi Hospital, mentioned that the homemade masks are useful because they can be washed and reused by patients and visitors.
HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire also takes donations of homemade fabric masks. The hospital uses these masks according to CDC guidelines and under the direction of hospital infection prevention experts.
Capital Health System in New Jersey accepts homemade masks but does not allow them to be used for at-risk patients, such as those diagnosed with COVID-19. All donated masks are washed, bleached, and sanitized before use.
Mary Washington Healthcare (MWH) in Virginia has a website with information on how people in the community can help. They provide step-by-step directions for making mask covers to fit over N95 masks, which can be laundered and reused.
St Francis Medical Center in New Jersey provides specifications for making homemade masks. They only accept masks made of 100% cotton with a minimum of 160 thread count per square inch.
Atlantic Health System in New Jersey does not have strict limitations on the materials used for homemade masks. They only stipulate that masks should be made using tightly woven cotton with a soft cotton back layer.
In addition to hospitals, some local businesses and organizations are also accepting masks to donate to hospitals. For instance, the Oakland Public Library in San Francisco collects masks to donate to hospitals in the Bay Area.
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How to make homemade masks
The ongoing pandemic has seen a surge in demand for protective masks, and volunteers have stepped up to fill the gap. Many hospitals are accepting donations of homemade masks, and there are several ways to get involved.
Firstly, it is important to research the requirements for mask donations. Hospitals may have specific guidelines for the type, material, and design of masks they can accept. Some hospitals may not be accepting homemade masks, so checking their website or contacting them directly is essential. There are also organizations and online platforms, such as Mask Match, that provide information on areas in need of homemade masks and offer guides and resources for sewing masks.
Once you have identified the requirements and guidelines, gather the necessary materials. Cotton fabric and sewing machines are commonly used by volunteers making masks. You can also check with local sewing groups or quilting groups, as they may have patterns and materials specifically approved by hospitals.
When making the masks, pay attention to the instructions provided by the hospital or organization. The masks should be sewn securely, and some organizations recommend washing the masks before donation. It is also important to follow any guidelines regarding the straps or ties of the masks.
By following these steps, you can contribute to the effort to provide protective masks for healthcare workers and others in need during the pandemic. Remember to stay informed and follow the latest recommendations and guidelines to ensure your donations are effective and safe.
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Where to donate
In the Bay Area, several hospitals are accepting donations of homemade masks. These include Kaiser Permanente Oakland, Kaiser Permanente Richmond, and Kaiser Permanente San Francisco. You can mail donations to these hospitals or drop them off at specified addresses.
In addition to hospitals, some local businesses and the Oakland Public Library in the Bay Area are also accepting masks to donate to hospitals.
In Utah, while medical centers are not accepting homemade cloth masks, residents and businesses can donate unused medical-grade personal protective equipment (PPE).
In Fredericksburg, Virginia, homemade masks have been donated to Mary Washington Healthcare.
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Alternative ways to help
While homemade masks were being donated to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers cautioned against the use of homemade protective gear. Hospitals are now urging people to donate unused equipment, give blood, or volunteer time with organizations like the United Way. Here are some alternative ways to help:
- Donate Money: Monetary donations to hospitals and healthcare organizations can help support their efforts in purchasing necessary equipment and supplies.
- Give Blood: Hospitals often require blood donations, and this can be a direct way to help those in need.
- Volunteer: Consider volunteering with organizations such as the United Way, which works to improve communities and address local issues.
- Support Local Businesses: Local businesses may be accepting mask donations to forward to hospitals. Your support can help them continue their efforts in assisting healthcare providers.
- Mental Health Support: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of many individuals. You can help by sharing resources and supporting those around you. Relaxation techniques, social support, and consulting mental health professionals are recommended ways to cope.
- Practice Prevention: By practicing core prevention strategies, you can help reduce the spread of COVID-19. This includes good hygiene, improving air quality, and staying home when sick.
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Other items hospitals need
Hospitals require a variety of items to function effectively and protect their staff. Here is a list of items hospitals need besides masks:
Medical Imaging Software and Electronic Medical Records
Medical imaging software and electronic medical records are crucial for hospitals to store and access patient data efficiently. These systems enable healthcare providers to quickly retrieve patient information, facilitating better decision-making and patient care.
Monitors and Medical Devices
Blood pressure monitors, heart rate monitors, and ultrasound machines are essential for monitoring patient vital signs. Hospitals also require other medical devices, such as ECG machines and patient monitors, and microscopes, to assess and diagnose patients accurately.
Pharmaceuticals
Hospitals administer various pharmaceuticals, including tablets, creams, and liquids, to patients daily. These medications are typically stored in controlled zones and dispensed by authorised medical staff, such as nurses, and must be carefully recorded in patient records.
Medical Gas Hose Assemblies
Medical gas hose assemblies are vital for the safe distribution of anesthetics and oxygen to patients. These assemblies ensure that physicians and anesthesiologists can provide the necessary gases to patients during procedures or while administering treatments.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment, or PPE, is essential for healthcare workers to protect themselves and prevent the spread of infections. PPE includes items such as suits, goggles, gloves, face shields, and masks. These items create a barrier between the wearer and potential contaminants and help maintain a sterile environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Homemade masks can help to slow the spread of COVID-19 in communities. They can also be used in hospitals as a last resort to preserve more protective equipment for higher-risk situations.
Hospitals in the Bay Area, California, have accepted donations of homemade masks. Kaiser Permanente Oakland, Kaiser Permanente Richmond, and Kaiser Permanente San Francisco have all sought donations of masks, face shields, hand sanitizer, and other protective equipment. Hospitals in Utah, however, have not accepted homemade cloth masks as they do not provide the appropriate level of antimicrobial protection for caregivers in close contact with COVID-19 patients.
The grassroots collective website Make Masks provides information on how to make homemade masks. The website also helps you identify which areas in your state need homemade masks and how many are being requested.
