What is the correct order of donning PPE?

NORCET 1 - 2020

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: NORCET 1 - 2020

Explanation

The correct sequence for donning PPE is Gown, Mask/Respirator, Goggles/Face Shield, and Gloves.
This order is based on infection control principles to minimize contamination.
The gown is applied first to protect clothing and skin.
The mask and goggles are applied next to protect the mucous membranes of the face.
Gloves are applied last to ensure they remain as clean as possible for patient care, with the cuffs pulled over the gown's sleeves for a complete seal.

Option B: Starting with gloves is incorrect. The gloves would become contaminated while donning the gown, mask, and goggles, defeating their purpose of providing a clean barrier for patient contact.
Option C: Starting with the mask before the gown is incorrect. The gown should be the first piece of PPE put on to protect the healthcare worker's clothing and body from contamination.
Option D: Starting with gloves is incorrect. This sequence poses a high risk of self-contamination as the gloves will touch other non-sterile surfaces and PPE during the donning process.

Visual 1: Infographic - A step-by-step infographic illustrating the correct sequence for donning PPE (Hand Hygiene -> Gown -> Mask -> Goggles -> Gloves). Each step should have a clear image and a brief instruction.
Visual 2: Diagram - A diagram showing a healthcare worker correctly wearing all PPE, with labels pointing to the gown, mask, goggles, and gloves, emphasizing how the glove cuffs overlap the gown sleeves.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Infection Control: Donning PPE as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Correctly donning PPE is a fundamental skill in nursing that directly impacts the safety of both the healthcare provider and the patient by preventing the transmission of infectious agents.
Failure to follow the proper sequence can lead to self-contamination and contribute to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
What if? If an N95 respirator is required instead of a surgical mask (e.g., for an airborne pathogen like tuberculosis), the sequence remains the same, but an additional 'fit check' step is mandatory after putting on the respirator to ensure a proper seal.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core question: The question asks for the correct order of a procedure (donning PPE).
Recall the standard protocol for infection control. The sequence is designed to minimize contamination.
Think logically about the process. You want to protect your clothes first (gown), then your face (mask, goggles), and finally your hands (gloves), which will be doing the touching.
Eliminate options that start with gloves. Gloves should be put on last to keep them clean for patient contact.
Evaluate the remaining options based on the principle of working from the body outwards. The gown covers the largest area and goes on first. This leaves only the correct sequence.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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