Which personal protective equipment should be doffed last?

Doffing personal protective equipment (PPE) is a crucial step in infection control, particularly in caregiving settings. The correct procedure ensures that contamination is minimized and the caregiver remains safe.

Shoe covers are typically doffed last because they are among the last barriers protecting the caregiver from contamination, especially when they exit a contaminated area or environment. Removing shoe covers last helps to prevent any pathogens that may have been transferred to the outer surface from contaminating the caregiver's hands or clothing.

In contrast, gloves, face masks, and surgical caps are generally removed earlier in the sequence. Gloves are often the first item to be doffed because they are directly in contact with potentially infectious materials. The face mask and surgical cap protect against respiratory droplet transmission and exposure to contaminants, but they are ideally removed before the shoe covers to maintain a clean technique while still ensuring that the footwear remains protected last.

Adhering to the sequence of doffing PPE helps in preventing cross-contamination and is a critical aspect of maintaining safety in caregiving practices.