Question

Difficulty: MediumStandard and Transmission-Based Precautions

A practical nurse is preparing to provide direct care for a pediatric client who has been admitted with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is placed on contact and droplet precautions. Arrange the steps for donning the required personal protective equipment (PPE) in the correct sequence from first to last.

  1. 1Perform hand hygiene using an alcohol-based hand rub or antimicrobial soap and water.
  2. 2Put on a clean isolation gown and fasten the ties securely at the neck and waist.
  3. 3Apply a surgical mask, securing the bands and pinching the flexible band to fit the bridge of the nose.
  4. 4Position a face shield or goggles over the eyes and adjust for a snug fit.
  5. 5Put on clean, non-sterile gloves, extending them to cover the cuffs of the isolation gown.

Answer

The correct sequence is: Perform hand hygiene, put on the gown, apply the surgical mask, position the face shield or goggles, and finally put on the gloves.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the correct sequence for donning PPE is to perform hand hygiene first, followed by the gown. The mask or respirator is applied next, followed by eye protection (goggles or face shield). Gloves are always put on last so they can be extended to cover the wrist cuffs of the isolation gown, ensuring no skin is exposed.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the required precautions for RSV.
The nurse determines that contact and droplet precautions require a gown, surgical mask, eye protection, and gloves.
Knowing the correct PPE items is essential before beginning the donning process.
2
Apply the CDC recommended sequence for donning PPE.
The nurse sequences the steps starting with hand hygiene, followed by the gown, mask, eye protection, and finally gloves.
Following the standardized sequence prevents contamination of clean equipment and ensures all barriers (like the glove-over-gown seal) are properly established.

Key Concept

Standard Sequence for Donning Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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