Which is the correct sequence for doffing PPE after care with contact precautions?

• A. Remove gown; remove gloves; hand hygiene; remove eye protection if worn; remove mask; hand hygiene again.
• B. Remove gloves; remove gown; perform hand hygiene; remove eye protection if worn; remove mask; perform hand hygiene again.
• C. Remove mask; remove gloves; remove gown; hand hygiene.
• D. Remove eye protection; remove gloves; remove gown; perform hand hygiene; remove mask.

Answer: (B)

During doffing after care with contact precautions, the goal is to minimize self-contamination by removing the most contaminated items first and cleaning hands at key points. Start with removing gloves, since they’re most likely to be contaminated, then take off the gown. After the gown is removed, perform hand hygiene to cleanse any contaminants on your hands before handling other PPE. Next, remove eye protection if worn, taking care not to touch the outside surface. Then remove the mask, again avoiding contact with the front of the mask. Finally, perform hand hygiene again to ensure any remaining contaminants are washed away. This sequence helps prevent transferring pathogens to your hands, eyes, nose, mouth, or to others, and supports safe disposal of used PPE.