Prior to entering the negative-pressure isolation room of a client admitted with disseminated varicella-zoster virus, the healthcare provider must put on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Arrange the following actions in the correct sequential order to safely prepare for patient care according to standard infection control guidelines.
- 1Perform hand hygiene using an alcohol-based hand rub or antimicrobial soap.
- 2Don a fluid-resistant isolation gown and securely fasten the closures at the neck and back.
- 3Apply a fit-tested N95 respirator, positioning the straps on the crown of the head and base of the neck.
- 4Place a face shield or goggles over the eyes and adjust to fit comfortably.
- 5Put on clean, nonsterile gloves and pull the cuffs completely over the wrists of the isolation gown.
Answer
The correct sequence for donning personal protective equipment is: perform hand hygiene, don the isolation gown, apply the N95 respirator, place the eye protection, and finally put on the gloves.
Following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, PPE must be donned in a sequence that minimizes contamination and ensures all barrier components function together effectively. Hand hygiene must occur first. The gown is applied to cover the body, followed by the respirator and eye protection to secure the face. Gloves are applied last specifically so they can extend over the gown cuffs, completing the physical barrier.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Correct sequential donning of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)