What is the correct order to put on PPE?

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

Answer: (B)

The idea behind donning PPE in a specific order is to protect yourself from exposure and keep clean surfaces from becoming contaminated as you add each layer. In this sequence, you put on the mask first to protect your airways right away, before handling other items or adjusting clothing. Then you don the gown to create a barrier for your clothes and skin, so you can move to the gloves without dragging contaminants onto your hands. The gloves come last to establish a clean barrier on your hands for patient care, and you can remove them safely without touching contaminated surfaces.

If eye protection were needed, it would be added after the mask and before the gloves to keep your eyes protected without compromising the barrier you’ve established. Other orders could expose mucous membranes or clothing to contamination—for example, placing gloves on before the gown can make it harder to keep the hands clean, or putting the gown on after touching the mask can risk transferring contaminants to the gown. This option aligns with keeping your face protected early, then covering your body, and finally securing hand protection.