What does Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) include?

Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE, encompasses a variety of gear designed to protect healthcare workers and patients from exposure to potentially infectious materials, and it plays a crucial role in infection control. The correct answer specifically identifies gloves, gowns, and masks as components of PPE.

Gloves serve as a barrier to prevent contamination when handling bodily fluids or working with patients. Gowns offer protection for clothing and skin against splashes or contact with infectious agents. Masks are essential in reducing the risk of inhaling airborne pathogens and protecting the respiratory system.

PPE is not limited to gloves alone, nor does it consist solely of masks and gowns. Surgical instruments, meanwhile, are not classified as PPE because they are tools used for specific medical procedures rather than protective gear. Collectively, gloves, gowns, and masks form a comprehensive approach to safeguarding against infections in a healthcare setting.