Hoosier Firm Develops New PPE Tool for Healthcare Workers

(image courtesy: ParagonMedical.com)

Healthcare workers may soon have another tool to help protect them from airborne particles when placing an intubation tube into a patient. Pierceton-based Paragon Medical says the personal protection equipment went from concept to release in two weeks.

Paragon, a division of NN Life Sciences, has developed an intubation shield. The company says the device, which is shaped like a cube, can be placed over a patient’s head and shoulders.

It is made of clear plastic and allows the healthcare worker to reach through to intubate a patient.

“I am extremely proud of the team who worked on the project,” said Rick Stetler, group vice president of operations for NN Life Sciences. “To have developed a product that contributes to the safety of the clinicians who are risking so much during this time is something that we take a lot of pride in.”

Stetler said Paragon Medical teamed up with Georgia-based Solvay Specialty Polymers in manufacturing the device.

The company said the polymer shield can withstand repeated full cleanings and disinfection.