Which PPE is typically used for droplet precautions when there is a splash risk?

• A. Gloves and gown only.
• B. N95 respirator with goggles for all patients.
• C. Gloves, gown, surgical mask, and eye protection if there is splash risk.
• D. Surgical mask alone.

Answer: (C)

Droplet precautions aim to block the spread of large respiratory droplets and to protect mucous membranes if there’s a chance of splashes. When splash risk is present, you must cover all potential entry points: the mouth and nose with a mask, the eyes with eye protection, and the skin/clothes with gloves and a gown. A surgical mask is typically used for droplet protection, while an N95 is reserved for airborne precautions or aerosol-generating procedures. Eye protection is essential here because droplets can reach the eyes, which are a common exposure route. So the best choice includes gloves, gown, a surgical mask, and eye protection to comprehensively guard against splash exposure. The other options omit one or more of these protective elements or use a higher-level respirator than necessary for routine droplet precautions.