Describe the correct sequence for donning PPE when preparing to care for a patient with suspected airborne isolation.

Describe the correct sequence for donning PPE when preparing to care for a patient with suspected airborne isolation.

• A. Gown, N95 or higher respirator, eye protection or face shield, and gloves.
• B. Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection.
• C. N95, gown, eye protection, gloves.
• D. Gown, N95, gloves, eye protection.

Answer: (A)

Correct donning sequence for airborne precautions starts with the gown, then the respirator, followed by eye protection, and finishing with gloves. Gowning first creates a protective barrier for your clothing and skin. Putting on the N95 or higher respirator next ensures you have a proper seal before anything else touches your face, so you’re protected from inhaling aerosols. Eye protection goes on after the respirator to shield your eyes and to keep the face area secure without compromising the respirator’s fit. Finally, gloves are donned last to cover the hands after all other PPE is in place, with the gown cuffs protected by the glove cuffs to minimize skin exposure. This order helps prevent self-contamination and keeps each piece properly positioned as you layer up.

Correct donning sequence for airborne precautions starts with the gown, then the respirator, followed by eye protection, and finishing with gloves. Gowning first creates a protective barrier for your clothing and skin. Putting on the N95 or higher respirator next ensures you have a proper seal before anything else touches your face, so you’re protected from inhaling aerosols. Eye protection goes on after the respirator to shield your eyes and to keep the face area secure without compromising the respirator’s fit. Finally, gloves are donned last to cover the hands after all other PPE is in place, with the gown cuffs protected by the glove cuffs to minimize skin exposure. This order helps prevent self-contamination and keeps each piece properly positioned as you layer up.