What is the correct sequence for removing personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The correct sequence for removing personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial to minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring the safety of healthcare providers.

Starting with the removal of gloves is important because they are the most contaminated item when providing patient care. By starting here, you prevent any potential transfer of pathogens from the gloves to your hands, which could occur if you were to remove other items first. After the gloves, goggles or face shields should be removed next. This is followed by the gown, which is typically the most protective layer and should be taken off without allowing the front of the gown to touch the body, minimizing the risk of contamination. Lastly, the mask or respirator is removed. This is done last because it protects the wearer from exposure to respiratory droplets, which is particularly critical when dealing with airborne pathogens.

Overall, this sequence of glove removal, followed by goggles, gown, and mask, effectively reduces the risk of exposure to contaminants that could be present on the PPE.