Which sequence reflects the correct order for applying personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Which sequence reflects the correct order for applying personal protective equipment (PPE)?

• A. Hand Hygiene, Gown, Mask, Eyewear, Gloves
• B. Gown, Mask, Eyewear, Gloves, Hand Hygiene
• C. Mask, Eyewear, Gloves, Gown, Hand Hygiene
• D. Hand Hygiene, Gown, Mask, Eyewear, Gloves

Answer: (D)

The sequence starts with hand hygiene to remove any germs from your hands, then you don the gown to create a protective barrier for your clothing and skin. Next place the mask to protect your nose and mouth, followed by securing eye protection to guard the eyes from splashes. Finally, put on the gloves, ensuring they cover the cuffs of the gown so there’s no exposed skin. This order minimizes the risk of contaminating clean areas and ensures each barrier is applied in a way that protects you and reduces exposure. If you mix up steps—like putting on gloves before the gown or skipping hand hygiene—you can transfer pathogens to barriers or skin, which defeats the purpose of wearing PPE.

The sequence starts with hand hygiene to remove any germs from your hands, then you don the gown to create a protective barrier for your clothing and skin. Next place the mask to protect your nose and mouth, followed by securing eye protection to guard the eyes from splashes. Finally, put on the gloves, ensuring they cover the cuffs of the gown so there’s no exposed skin. This order minimizes the risk of contaminating clean areas and ensures each barrier is applied in a way that protects you and reduces exposure. If you mix up steps—like putting on gloves before the gown or skipping hand hygiene—you can transfer pathogens to barriers or skin, which defeats the purpose of wearing PPE.