What is the correct order for doffing PPE?

• A. Goggles, gloves, gown, mask.
• B. Gloves, gown, goggles, mask.
• C. Mask, gown, gloves, goggles.
• D. Gloves, goggles, gown, mask.

Answer: (D)

Doffing PPE in the correct order minimizes self-contamination by keeping contaminated surfaces away from skin as you remove each piece. The sequence gloves first, then goggles, then gown, then mask is safest because it reduces the chance that your hands touch contaminated surfaces and then touch your face.

Start by removing the gloves first, turning them inside out as you peel them off and disposing of them properly. This keeps your bare hands from ever touching potentially contaminated surfaces while you begin the cleanup.

Next, take off the eye protection by handling it only from the noncontaminated parts—use the straps or earpieces and lift away from the face without touching the front of the lenses.

Then remove the gown by unfastening the ties and pulling it away from your body, turning it inside out as you remove it so the contaminated exterior is contained and folded into itself for disposal.

Lastly, remove the mask by grasping the ties or ear loops and pulling it away from your face without touching the front surface.

Always perform hand hygiene immediately after doffing to ensure any residual contaminants are eliminated.