What is the correct order to doff PPE to prevent contamination?

What is the correct order to doff PPE to prevent contamination?

• A. Remove gown first, then mask, then gloves, then goggles
• B. Remove mask first, then gloves, then gown, then goggles
• C. Remove goggles, then gown, then gloves, then mask
• D. Remove gloves first, then goggles/face shield, then gown, then mask/respirator, and perform hand hygiene.

Answer: (D)

Doffing PPE in this order minimizes the chance of transferring contaminants to yourself or to clean surfaces. Start with the gloves because they are most likely contaminated; remove them carefully so you don’t touch your skin or clothing with contaminated glove material, and discard them. Next, take off the eye protection (goggles or face shield) to prevent touching your eyes with any contaminants while you remove the rest of the gear. Then remove the gown by untying or unfastening the ties and pulling it away from your body, turning it inside out as you go to keep the contaminated exterior contained. Finally, remove the mask or respirator by handling the ties or straps at the back, not touching the front, to avoid touching contaminated surfaces near your mouth and nose. After all PPE is removed, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer thoroughly. This sequence helps contain contamination and protects the mucous membranes during doffing.

Doffing PPE in this order minimizes the chance of transferring contaminants to yourself or to clean surfaces. Start with the gloves because they are most likely contaminated; remove them carefully so you don’t touch your skin or clothing with contaminated glove material, and discard them. Next, take off the eye protection (goggles or face shield) to prevent touching your eyes with any contaminants while you remove the rest of the gear. Then remove the gown by untying or unfastening the ties and pulling it away from your body, turning it inside out as you go to keep the contaminated exterior contained. Finally, remove the mask or respirator by handling the ties or straps at the back, not touching the front, to avoid touching contaminated surfaces near your mouth and nose. After all PPE is removed, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer thoroughly. This sequence helps contain contamination and protects the mucous membranes during doffing.