What is the correct order for Donning PPE in a standard infection control protocol?

What is the correct order for Donning PPE in a standard infection control protocol?

• A. Gown, mask/respirator, goggles/face shield, gloves.
• B. Gloves, gown, mask/respirator, goggles.
• C. Gown, gloves, mask/respirator, goggles.
• D. Mask/respirator, gown, goggles/face shield, gloves.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is the sequence that minimizes contamination when putting on personal protective equipment. The recommended order is to start with the gown, then the mask or respirator, next the goggles or face shield, and finally the gloves. Putting on the gown first creates a barrier for your clothing and skin and provides clean sleeves to cover when you handle the rest of the gear. The mask or respirator comes next to protect your airways; doing it after the gown helps avoid contaminating cloth or skin surfaces and ensures you can fit the mask properly without touching contaminated areas. After that, you put on eye protection to shield the eyes from splashes, which is now safer because you’ve already protected the mouth and nose. Gloves are the last piece because you want your hands to remain clean while you don the rest of the equipment and then have the gloves cover the cuff of the gown, forming a continuous barrier. Wearing gloves first would risk contaminating the PPE you haven’t donned yet, and donning eye protection or a mask after contaminated gloves could transfer germs to already-placed gear.

The main idea being tested is the sequence that minimizes contamination when putting on personal protective equipment. The recommended order is to start with the gown, then the mask or respirator, next the goggles or face shield, and finally the gloves. Putting on the gown first creates a barrier for your clothing and skin and provides clean sleeves to cover when you handle the rest of the gear. The mask or respirator comes next to protect your airways; doing it after the gown helps avoid contaminating cloth or skin surfaces and ensures you can fit the mask properly without touching contaminated areas. After that, you put on eye protection to shield the eyes from splashes, which is now safer because you’ve already protected the mouth and nose. Gloves are the last piece because you want your hands to remain clean while you don the rest of the equipment and then have the gloves cover the cuff of the gown, forming a continuous barrier. Wearing gloves first would risk contaminating the PPE you haven’t donned yet, and donning eye protection or a mask after contaminated gloves could transfer germs to already-placed gear.