COVID-19: Akzeptanz und Compliance von persönlicher Schutzausrüstung (PSA) und AHA-L-Regeln (Abstands- und Hygieneregeln) im deutschen Rettungsdienst – eine bundesweite Umfrage

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has also significantly burdened and challenged the German emergency medical services (EMS). In this regard, the personal protective equipment (PPE) and rules like wear a mask, stay 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, wash your hands often (called AHA‑L rules in Germany) play an important role in reducing the spread of COVID-19 infections. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the acceptance and compliance of PPE and protective measures among rescue service personnel in Germany during pandemic periods. METHOD: More than 270 medical directors of EMS were contacted. They were asked to forward a web-based online survey to the rescue stations. Participants were asked about acceptance and compliance in everyday life, in the rescue station, during missions without COVID-19, during missions with COVID-19. RESULTS: There were n = 1295 participants. Overall acceptance and compliance of PPE and protective measures is high. The lowest acceptance and compliance is found in the questions acceptance (mean = 4.16; ±1.01) and compliance (mean = 4.26; ±0.89) in the rescue station. CONCLUSION: We recommend targeted training regarding PPE in pandemics and the provision of appropriate premises for conflict-free compliance with AHA‑L rules.