Which items are included in Personal Protective Equipment?

• A. gowns, masks, goggles, face shields, and gloves
• B. stethoscope, thermometer
• C. notebooks, charts
• D. clothing only

Answer: (A)

Personal Protective Equipment is the set of items worn to create a barrier between you and potential infection or contamination during care. The items that fit this purpose include gowns to protect clothing and skin, masks to prevent respiratory droplets from reaching you, goggles or face shields to protect the eyes, and gloves to guard the hands. This combination covers protection against contact, droplets, and splash hazards during various care tasks.

The stethoscope and thermometer are clinical tools used for assessment, not protective gear. Notebooks and charts are records, not equipment worn to prevent exposure. Wearing clothing alone typically doesn’t provide enough barrier protection in many care situations, so PPE involves multiple pieces used together as appropriate.