As our front line workers continue to battle the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we continue to hear requests from the community on different ways you can help.
One way you can assist our preparedness efforts is by sewing isolation gowns and surgical caps. This helps augment our supply of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Isolation gowns
We want the gowns to meet the criteria for Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) Level 2 and 3 isolation gowns. These are often poly-coated to protect against liquid penetration but are light enough to wear for long periods of time.
We are most in need of size regular, large and XXL gowns.
Isolation gowns should have:
- Elastic, cuffed or long sleeves with thumb loops, which prevent skin from being exposed
- Full back coverage, with a slight overlap of material
- Full coverage to the neck
- Velcro or tie neck securement that allows for various size necks
- A tie at the left or right hip, not in the back
- Long sleeves
- Longer than knee-length
- The ability to be washed in 130-degree temperature
Here are some examples of some patterns you can use:
- Isolation gown pattern from Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop
- Isolation gown pattern from Wyoming Medical Center
You may also view this tutorial on YouTube.
Surgical caps
There are many patterns from which you can choose. The material should be breathable and cover the hair. There are two styles of surgical covers, scrub caps or bouffants. Caps tie in the back of the head, with an open flap for a ponytail. Bouffants may tie or have elastic. Here is one easy pattern to follow for scrub caps and another for bouffant caps. You can also check out this YouTube tutorial for bouffant caps.
These items should be delivered curbside to AAMC’s Belcher Pavilion Circle, located at 2000 Medical Parkway, Annapolis, MD, 21401. Hours for donation drop off are Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to noon. A member of the AAMC team will gratefully accept your donation. We sincerely appreciate your help as we work together to care for our community.
If you have questions or would like a tax-deductible receipt, please email us.
Learn about more ways you can help AAMC as we navigate this pandemic.
