After completing wound care for a client colonized with methicillin-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* (MRSA) and infected with influenza, a practical nurse prepares to exit the client's room. Arrange the following steps for removing the required personal protective equipment in the correct chronological order from first to last.
- 1Remove the contaminated gloves by peeling them off and discard them.
- 2Take off the face shield by handling only the back of the clean headband.
- 3Unfasten the ties of the fluid-resistant gown and pull it down and away from the body.
- 4Remove the procedural mask by grasping the bottom ties, then the top ties, without touching the front.
- 5Perform thorough hand hygiene using an alcohol-based rub or soap and water.
Answer
The correct sequence for removing personal protective equipment is: remove gloves, take off face shield, unfasten and remove gown, remove mask, and finally perform hand hygiene.
According to standard infection control protocols, the correct sequence for removing personal protective equipment is: gloves, eyewear (goggles or face shield), gown, and finally the mask or respirator. Hand hygiene must be performed immediately after all equipment is removed. Gloves are removed first because they are typically the most contaminated. The mask is removed last to prevent the inhalation of pathogens that might be dispersed into the air while removing the gown.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The standard CDC sequence for doffing (removing) personal protective equipment is designed to minimize the risk of cross-contamination and self-inoculation. The general rule is to remove the most contaminated items first.