In what order should PPE be donned for a contact precaution scenario?

• A. Gloves, gown, mask, eye protection
• B. Gown, gloves, eye protection, mask
• C. Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
• D. Gown, mask if needed, eye protection, gloves

Answer: (C)

Donning PPE in this order builds a clean-to-contaminated barrier and protects the most vulnerable areas first. Start with the gown so your clothing and arms are covered before anything else touches you. Then put on the mask to shield your nose and mouth, since this area is most likely to be exposed to droplets when you move or speak. If eye protection is needed, add it next to guard the eyes from splashes. Finally, slip on the gloves last so your hands remain protected as you complete the other steps, and you don’t contaminate other PPE while handling it. This sequence minimizes the chance of self-contamination and keeps exposed skin and mucous membranes protected throughout the process.