Which sequence describes the proper doffing order of PPE to minimize contamination?

• A. Remove gloves; remove gown and perform hand hygiene; remove eye protection; remove respirator/mask; perform hand hygiene again.
• B. Remove respirator; remove gloves; remove gown; remove eye protection; perform hand hygiene.
• C. Remove eye protection; remove gown; remove gloves; remove respirator; no hand hygiene.
• D. Remove gown; remove gloves; remove mask; remove eye protection; no hand hygiene.

Answer: (A)

Doffing PPE in the order of greatest contamination risk first helps prevent self‑contamination. Gloves are the most contaminated because they touch the patient and the environment, so removing them first minimizes transferring pathogens to your skin or mucous membranes. After gloves come the gown, which protects your clothing and skin from contaminants; removing it next keeps contaminants off your body and allows safer access to the rest of the PPE. Then you take off eye protection, followed by the respirator, all while avoiding contact with the front surfaces of these items. Ending with hand hygiene ensures any residual contamination on your hands is neutralized before touching your face or other surfaces. This sequence focuses on reducing transfer opportunities at every step. Other options start with less contaminated items, skip hand hygiene, or risk contaminating your face or hands during removal, which increases the chance of self‑contamination.