Which statement about the donning and doffing of PPE is correct?

• A. The order of putting on and taking off PPE does not matter as long as PPE is worn.
• B. The order of donning and doffing PPE matters and must be followed.
• C. PPE should be removed before the work area is cleaned.
• D. Donning is optional if wearing gloves.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that there is a defined sequence for putting on and taking off PPE, and following that sequence is essential to prevent self-contamination and environmental spread of contaminants. When you apply PPE, you layer protections in a specific order so that clean skin stays protected and contaminants don’t reach you. When you remove it, you do so in the reverse order, with careful steps and hand hygiene in between, so that the most contaminated items are handled first and you don’t transfer contaminants to your face or eyes.

That’s why stating that the order doesn’t matter is incorrect and could lead to exposure. PPE isn’t optional or limited to gloves alone; wearing the correct set of protective items in the right sequence is necessary for safety. The point about removing PPE before cleaning the area doesn’t address the importance of the correct donning and doffing sequence, which is the key practice this item is testing.