Which action sequence correctly describes doffing PPE?

• A. Gloves, Gown, Goggles, Respirator
• B. Goggles, Respirator, Gown, Gloves
• C. Gown, Gloves, Respirator, Goggles
• D. Respirator, Goggles, Gown, Gloves

Answer: (A)

Doffing PPE in the right order is all about preventing self-contamination as you remove contaminated gear. The sequence starts with removing the most contaminated item first and ends with the item that protects your airway last, while you handle each piece by its clean surfaces and avoid touching the front.

First, take off the gloves. They’re the most likely to be contaminated, and removing them first prevents transferring contaminants to the gown, eyes, or respirator. Use careful grasping and discard them without touching bare skin.

Next, remove the gown. Unfasten the ties and pull the gown away from the body, turning it inside out as you remove it so that the contaminated exterior stays away from you. This helps prevent contaminants on the gown from contacting clothing or skin during disposal.

Then, remove the eye protection. By handling the headbands or straps rather than the front, you avoid touching contaminated surfaces and bringing any splash or droplets to your eyes or face.

Finally, remove the respirator last. Grip the straps and lift away from the face without touching the front of the mask, which is most likely contaminated. Dispose of it properly and then perform hand hygiene.

After doffing, wash your hands thoroughly to ensure any residual contamination is removed. If you tried removing items in a different order, there’s a higher risk of transferring contaminants from gloves to skin or other PPE surfaces, or touching the face with contaminated hands.