An infection control nurse is evaluating staff compliance with isolation protocols on a medical-surgical unit. While observing a practical nurse put on a gown, surgical mask, face shield, and gloves, which action indicates the correct donning sequence?
- APutting on clean gloves first to protect the hands while handling the other protective items
- BTying the isolation gown securely at the waist after already pulling on the clean gloves
- Securing the surgical mask to the face before applying the clean glovesAnswer
- DApplying the surgical mask as the final step after adjusting the face shield and gloves
Answer
The correct action is securing the surgical mask to the face before applying the clean gloves.
According to standardized infection control guidelines, the correct order for donning personal protective equipment is gown, mask or respirator, goggles or face shield, and finally gloves. Therefore, securing the surgical mask before pulling on the clean gloves correctly follows the established sequence and maintains optimal infection control.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The standardized sequence for donning personal protective equipment is gown, mask or respirator, face shield or goggles, and finally gloves.