In clinical environments, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) serves as the primary barrier between a healthcare provider and infectious pathogens. While the concept of wearing protective gear seems straightforward, the specific sequence of putting it on (donning) and taking it off (doffing) is a high-stakes skill. Errors during these processes—particularly during doffing—can lead to self-contamination, turning a protective measure into a source of exposure.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the standardized procedure for using a gown and gloves, designed to ensure maximum safety for the clinician.
The Importance of Sequence and Technique
The goal of PPE use is to create a sterile or protected field around the body. The sequence is not arbitrary; it is engineered to ensure that the most contaminated items are handled with the most caution. When donning, the focus is on coverage; when doffing, the focus is on containment.
Clinical Tip: Always remember that the doffing process is the most dangerous phase. Most self-contamination occurs when a provider accidentally touches the "dirty" outside of a gown or glove with their bare skin.
Donning Procedure: Establishing the Barrier
The donning process must be performed systematically to ensure no skin is exposed. Follow these steps to ensure your equipment is properly fitted and secured:
- Gown Application: Begin by picking up the gown and unfolding it. To ensure proper placement, face the back opening of the gown and slide your arms through each sleeve.
- Securing the Gown: Fasten the neck opening securely. Next, fasten the gown at the waist. During this step, it is vital to ensure that the back of your clothing is covered by the gown as much as possible to prevent exposure of your uniform.
- Glove Application: Gloves should always be the final step in the donning sequence.
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