Question

the nurse dons gown, mask with eyeshield, and gloves before entering a client's room that has airborne precautions. upon leaving the client's room, in which sequence should the nurse remove the personal protective equipment (ppe)? (place the first action on top and last action on the bottom.)

Answer 1

The proper sequence for removing PPE when dealing with a client under airborne precautions is to first remove gloves, followed by the gown, and finally the mask with eyeshield, ensuring not to touch the front of these items. Hand hygiene is a critical final step in the process.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse is wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) for a client requiring airborne precautions, the proper removal sequence is crucial to prevent self-contamination and the spread of infectious agents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the sequence for removing PPE is as follows:

1. Gloves should be removed first because they are most likely to be contaminated. It is important to avoid touching the skin with the outside of the glove.
2. The gown should be removed next by untying all ties or breaking fasteners, and pulling it away from the body without touching the front. The gown should be folded inside out and discarded appropriately.
3. The mask with eyeshield is the last item to be removed. The nurse should take care not to touch the front of the mask or eyeshield, and remove it by handling the ties or elastic from behind.

After all PPE has been removed, it is critical to perform hand hygiene. Handwashing should be thorough, covering all surfaces of the hands and wrists with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if hands are not visibly soiled.

The sequence described aims to minimize the potential for cross-contamination and spread of infectious material. It is part of the comprehensive infection control practices that include hand hygiene, careful disinfection of items, and stringent protocols that medical personnel follow to protect themselves and others.