What is the proper order to remove PPE after finishing care in a room with contact precautions?

• A. Remove gloves first, then gown, then perform hand hygiene after removing PPE.
• B. Remove gown first, then gloves, then perform hand hygiene after removing PPE.
• C. Remove gloves, then gown, then perform hand hygiene after removing PPE.
• D. Remove gloves and gown together, then perform hand hygiene.

Answer: (C)

Removing PPE in the right order is about preventing self-contamination. Start with the gloves because they are most likely contaminated after patient care. Carefully peel them away from the inside, turning them inside out as you go, and discard. Next, remove the gown by unfastening the ties or closures without touching the outside contaminated surface, then roll or fold the gown inside out as you remove it and discard. Finally, after all PPE is off, perform hand hygiene to clean any skin that may have touched contaminated surfaces during removal. This sequence minimizes the chance that contaminants on gloves or the gown will reach your hands or face.