Final answer:
PPE, or Personal Protective Equipment, is the acronym that refers to barriers safeguarding against infectious agents. The skin is part of the body's first line of defense, providing both physical and chemical barriers to pathogens. Preventive measures like handwashing are critical in preventing infectious diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acronym that refers to barriers used to protect skin, mucous membranes, and clothing from infectious agents is PPE, which stands for Personal Protective Equipment. PPE includes items like gloves, gowns, face masks, and eye protection that health workers use to prevent infection and the spread of pathogens. The body's first line of defense against diseases includes physical and chemical barriers such as skin and mucus, which block and remove pathogens. For instance, the skin, being a mechanical barrier, prevents pathogens from entering the body. In addition to the skin's physical defense, it creates an acidic environment that is inhospitable to many microorganisms. Furthermore, regions not covered by skin, like eyes and mucous membranes, have defenses like mucus and tears to trap and remove pathogens.
The common cold is caused by viruses, while athlete's foot is caused by a type of fungus. Preventive measures against waterborne diseases include actions like thorough handwashing, which serves as a crucial line of defense against the transmission of infectious pathogens.