Which PPE is required for contact precautions?

Which PPE is required for contact precautions?

• A. Gloves and gown; wear for all contact with the patient and contaminated surfaces
• B. Mask and gown
• C. No PPE required
• D. Gloves only

Answer: (A)

For contact precautions, you protect against organisms spread by touch by using both gloves and a gown. Gloves create a barrier for your hands when you touch the patient or contaminated surfaces, while the gown shields your clothing and skin from contaminated materials. You should put on the gown and gloves before entering the room and remove them in the right order, with hand hygiene performed after removing PPE. Change gloves between tasks and before touching clean areas, then discard them and perform hand hygiene. Masks aren’t routinely required for contact precautions, unless there’s an additional droplet or airborne risk. Wearing gloves alone leaves skin and clothing unprotected and isn’t sufficient to prevent transmission.