What is the correct order to doff personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The correct order for doffing personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and preventing the spread of infections. In the correct sequence, gloves are removed first because they are most likely to be contaminated when providing care to patients. Removing gloves first prevents touching other surfaces or clean items with potentially contaminated gloves.

After the gloves, the gown is removed. This step is important as the gown can also be contaminated, especially if it has been in contact with the patient or their environment. Care must be taken to avoid skin contact with the outside of the gown while removing it.

Next, goggles or face shields are taken off, as they provide eye protection that may have been exposed to infectious materials. Removing these after the gloves and gown minimizes the risk of cross-contamination to the eyes, which are also a potential entry point for pathogens.

Finally, the mask or respirator is removed. The mask or respirator should be the last piece of PPE removed to protect against inhaling any airborne pathogens that may still be present.

This sequence helps ensure that the healthcare worker minimizes their risk of exposure to contaminants throughout the process of removing PPE.