What is the proper order for donning personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The correct order for donning personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial to ensuring safety and preventing contamination. In the correct sequence, putting on the gown first helps provide a protective layer covering your clothing. After the gown, the mask is donned to protect the airways from potential airborne pathogens. This is followed by goggles or face shield to protect the eyes from splashes or droplets. Finally, gloves are put on last, ensuring that they cover the cuffs of the gown and provide a barrier to contamination.

This order is designed to create a barrier between health care workers and any potential infection, reducing the risk of contamination during the process of putting on PPE. Understanding this sequence can be critical in clinical settings to ensure both personal safety and the safety of patients.