COPE Health Scholars Practice Test

How should personal protective equipment (PPE) be removed?

1. In any order

2. Dirty to clean

3. Clean to dirty

4. Only gloves first

The correct answer is: Dirty to clean

The procedure for removing personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing contamination. The correct approach involves removing PPE from "dirty" to "clean," which means that the most contaminated items should be taken off first. This method minimizes the risk of spreading pathogens and contaminants from the contaminated surface of the PPE to the person's skin or surrounding environment. For example, if gloves are removed first, they should be taken off in such a way that the contaminated outer surface does not touch the skin. The next piece of PPE, such as a gown or mask, should be removed in a manner that also prevents any contaminants from reaching the wearer. By following this "dirty to clean" protocol, healthcare workers can effectively protect themselves and others from the transmission of infectious agents, ensuring a safer environment in healthcare settings. In contrast, removing PPE in any order could lead to increased risk of contamination, as the most contaminated items would not be removed first. Removing clean items before contaminated ones could also lead to spreading contaminants to clean surfaces. Therefore, adhering to the principle of removing PPE from dirty to clean is essential for infection control practices.