Provide a correct sequence for doffing PPE to minimize self-contamination.

• A. Remove gloves, remove gown, remove eye protection, remove respirator/mask, then perform hand hygiene.
• B. Remove eye protection, remove gown, remove gloves, remove respirator/mask, then perform hand hygiene.
• C. Remove gown, remove gloves, remove eye protection, remove respirator/mask, then perform hand hygiene.
• D. Remove respirator/mask first, then gloves, gown, eye protection, and hand hygiene.

Answer: (A)

Doffing PPE in this order minimizes self-contamination by removing the most contaminated items first and keeping clean hands away from potentially contaminated surfaces as long as possible. Starting with gloves makes sense because they are directly exposed to the patient and environment and are most likely to carry pathogens; removing them first prevents transferring contaminants to the gown, face, or other gear. Next, take off the gown to avoid contaminating your clothing or skin with any material that might have soaked through the gown's exterior. Removing eye protection after the gown helps ensure droplets or splashes are not introduced to the face or mucous membranes while you're still handling other contaminated gear. Then remove the respirator or mask, reducing the chance that contaminated straps or the device will touch your face after you’ve disposed of the other PPE. Finally, perform hand hygiene to eliminate any residual contamination on your hands before touching your face or other surfaces. This sequence collectively lowers the risk of transferring pathogens from PPE to skin, mucous membranes, or the environment.