A client is admitted to the intensive care unit with confirmed avian influenza (H5N1) and requires airborne, contact, and eye precautions. A staff nurse is preparing to enter the negative-pressure room to perform an assessment. In what order should the nurse apply the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)? Arrange the actions in the correct sequence from first to last.
- 1Perform hand hygiene using an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- 2Put on a fluid-resistant isolation gown and fasten all ties securely.
- 3Apply a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator and perform a user seal check.
- 4Place a face shield or goggles over the face and eyes.
- 5Don clean, nonsterile gloves and extend them over the cuffs of the gown.
Answer
The correct sequence for donning personal protective equipment is: hand hygiene, isolation gown, N95 respirator, face shield or goggles, and finally gloves.
According to standard infection control protocols established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the sequence for donning PPE is strictly organized to ensure all barriers are properly placed and secured. Hand hygiene must always occur first. The gown is applied to protect the torso and arms. The respirator is applied next so its straps can secure directly to the head. Eye protection follows, resting securely on the face. Finally, gloves are applied last so they can be stretched entirely over the cuffs of the gown, ensuring a continuous barrier.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dictates a strict chronological sequence for donning personal protective equipment (PPE) to maximize effectiveness and minimize self-contamination: hand hygiene, gown, mask or respirator, goggles or face shield, and then gloves.