Question

Difficulty: EasyAccident, Error, and Injury Prevention

A practical nurse is preparing to enter the room of a client who requires contact and droplet precautions. Arrange the following steps for donning personal protective equipment (PPE) in the correct sequence.

  1. 1Put on the isolation gown, fastening it securely at the neck and waist.
  2. 2Apply a surgical mask, ensuring it covers the nose and mouth securely.
  3. 3Place goggles or a face shield over the eyes and adjust for a snug fit.
  4. 4Put on clean gloves, extending the edges over the wrists of the isolation gown.

Answer

The correct sequence for donning PPE is: Gown, Mask, Goggles or Face Shield, then Gloves.
According to standard infection control protocols, personal protective equipment must be donned in a specific sequence to ensure a proper fit and a continuous protective barrier. The gown is put on first to cover the torso and arms. Next, the mask is applied to protect the nose and mouth. Then, eye protection (goggles or face shield) is added. Finally, gloves are put on last so they can be pulled up over the cuffs of the gown, preventing any skin exposure at the wrists.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the standard guidelines for donning personal protective equipment.
The nurse recognizes that the sequence is designed to build protective layers from the most comprehensive to the most specific.
Following standard guidelines ensures maximum protection and prevents self-contamination during the donning process.
2
Select the gown as the first item.
The torso and arms receive a foundational barrier.
It is easiest to tie and secure the gown behind the back before the hands are gloved or vision is potentially restricted by eyewear.
3
Select the mask as the second item.
The respiratory tract and mouth are protected.
Applying the mask before eyewear ensures the mask's upper edge sits properly under the goggles or face shield to prevent fogging.
4
Select the goggles or face shield as the third item.
The eyes are protected from droplets.
Eye protection is placed over the mask to complete facial coverage.
5
Select the gloves as the final item.
The hands are protected and the barrier is sealed.
Gloves are put on last so they can be stretched over the cuffs of the gown, leaving no exposed skin at the wrists.

Key Concept

The standard sequence for donning personal protective equipment is Gown, Mask, Goggles/Face Shield, then Gloves to ensure proper fit and a continuous barrier.
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