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Question

Difficulty: MediumStandard and Transmission-Based Precautions

A practical nurse provides care for a pediatric client diagnosed with adenovirus, which requires both contact and droplet precautions. The nurse is wearing a fluid-resistant gown, clean gloves, a surgical mask, and protective goggles. According to standard infection control protocols, which item of personal protective equipment (PPE) should the nurse remove last to minimize the risk of cross-contamination?

  1. Surgical maskAnswer
  2. B
    Clean gloves
  3. C
    Protective goggles
  4. D
    Fluid-resistant gown

Answer

The surgical mask is removed last, typically after exiting the client's room.
According to standard infection control guidelines, the surgical mask or respirator is the final piece of personal protective equipment to be removed. Because the front of the mask is considered contaminated, it is removed by handling the ties or ear loops after the nurse has exited the client's room and closed the door. This ensures the nurse's respiratory tract remains protected while inside the room and during the removal of other contaminated items.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the personal protective equipment (PPE) being worn by the nurse.
The nurse is wearing a gown, gloves, mask, and goggles.
Knowing the specific PPE items dictates the proper sequence for removal.
2
Recall the standardized sequence for removing PPE.
The sequence is typically gloves first, followed by goggles or face shield, then the gown, and finally the mask or respirator.
This sequence ensures that the most contaminated items are removed first without contaminating the nurse's face, mucous membranes, or clothing.
3
Determine the location where the final item should be removed.
The surgical mask should be removed after leaving the client's room and closing the door.
Removing the mask outside the room prevents inhalation of airborne or droplet particles that may still be suspended in the room's environment.

Key Concept

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Doffing Sequence
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Topics

Standard and Transmission-Based Precautions

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