What is the proper sequence for removing PPE?

What is the proper sequence for removing PPE?

• A. Gloves; Goggles/Face Shield; Gown; Mask/Respirator
• B. Gloves; Goggles/Face Shield; Mask/Respirator; Gown
• C. Goggles/Face Shield; Gloves; Gown; Mask/Respirator
• D. Gloves; Gown; Goggles/Face Shield; Mask/Respirator

Answer: (A)

PPE doffing is done in an order that minimizes self-contamination. Start with removing the gloves because they’re the most likely to be contaminated; taking them off first prevents transferring contaminants to the other PPE. Next, take off goggles or a face shield to protect your eyes and avoid splashes reaching mucous membranes, using a clean motion that doesn’t touch your face. Then remove the gown, typically by pulling it away from the body and turning it inside out to keep the contaminated exterior away from your hands. Finally, remove the mask or respirator by handling only the straps from behind, so you don’t touch the contaminated front of the device or your face. After all PPE is removed, wash or sanitize your hands. Other sequences risk touching contaminated surfaces with bare hands or exposing your eyes or mucous membranes during removal.

PPE doffing is done in an order that minimizes self-contamination. Start with removing the gloves because they’re the most likely to be contaminated; taking them off first prevents transferring contaminants to the other PPE. Next, take off goggles or a face shield to protect your eyes and avoid splashes reaching mucous membranes, using a clean motion that doesn’t touch your face. Then remove the gown, typically by pulling it away from the body and turning it inside out to keep the contaminated exterior away from your hands. Finally, remove the mask or respirator by handling only the straps from behind, so you don’t touch the contaminated front of the device or your face. After all PPE is removed, wash or sanitize your hands. Other sequences risk touching contaminated surfaces with bare hands or exposing your eyes or mucous membranes during removal.