Final answer:
PPE such as gloves, gowns, and masks are crucial for preventing direct contact with infectious materials. These items create barriers against infection that protect not just the health workers but also prevent the spread of pathogens to others.
Step-by-step explanation:
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that prevents direct contact with infectious materials includes items such as gloves, gowns, and masks. These items are essential for any health worker or individual who may come into contact with infectious materials.
- Gloves protect the hands from coming into contact with infectious substances and are essential when working with cultures or when there is a possibility of touching contaminated surfaces.
- Gowns or aprons provide a physical barrier that protects the body and the wearer's clothing from infection and contamination.
- Masks and respirators prevent inhalation of infectious agents as well as the spread of pathogens from the wearer to others, especially important for airborne diseases.
- Face shields and goggles protect the eyes and face from splashes and sprays of infectious materials.
- Shoe covers help prevent tracking infectious material in and out of infection zones.
Additional PPE such as aprons, shoe covers, and specialized protective suits can be used depending on the level of risk and the pathogen being handled, like in BSL-4 laboratories where suits with their own air supply are used.