Using Personal Protective Equipment

Category: Basic Infection Control
Status: Stub — content coming soon


Purpose

PPE creates a barrier between the nurse and infectious material, protecting both the patient and the healthcare worker.

Transmission-Based Precautions

Precaution TypePPE RequiredExample Conditions
ContactGloves, gownMRSA, VRE, C. diff, wound infections
DropletGloves, gown, surgical maskInfluenza, pertussis, meningitis
AirborneGloves, gown, N95 respirator, eye protectionTB, measles, varicella, COVID-19

Donning Order (Putting On)

  1. Perform hand hygiene
  2. Gown
  3. Mask or respirator
  4. Eye protection (goggles/face shield)
  5. Gloves

Doffing Order (Removing) — Most Contaminated First

  1. Gloves
  2. Eye protection
  3. Gown
  4. Mask or respirator
  5. Perform hand hygiene

Key Points

  • Gloves are the most contaminated item — remove first
  • Mask/respirator is the least contaminated — remove last
  • Perform hand hygiene immediately after removing PPE
  • Never touch face while wearing PPE

N95 Fit Testing

Describe annual fit testing requirements and seal check procedure.

Notes

Add personal notes here.