Which sequence is the correct doffing order for PPE to minimize self-contamination?

• A. Gloves, eye protection, gown, mask/respirator, and then hand hygiene.
• B. Mask first, then gloves, then gown, then eye protection.
• C. Gown, gloves, mask, eye protection.
• D. Eye protection, gloves, gown, mask.

Answer: (A)

Doffing PPE in the right order is about removing the items most likely to spread contamination first and protecting clean skin from contact with contaminated surfaces. The sequence starts with gloves because they are the most exposed and likely to be contaminated from touching everything. Removing them first helps prevent transferring pathogens to other PPE or to your hands as you handle the rest.

After gloves come eye protection. Handling eyewear after taking off gloves minimizes the chance of transferring contaminants toward the eyes, and you can grab it by the clean parts or straps rather than touching the contaminated front. Next is the gown; removing the outer, potentially contaminated surface before you touch your face or other clean areas reduces the chance of contaminating skin or clothes as you remove other pieces. Then the mask or respirator is removed, taking care to avoid touching the contaminated front and using the ties or straps. Finally, hand hygiene is performed to remove any residual contamination on the hands.

This approach embodies the safety goal: remove the most contaminated items first and protect your clean skin, minimizing the risk of self-contamination during the doffing process. Starting with the mask or with the gown or with eye protection could increase the chance of contaminating your hands or face during subsequent steps.