Question

Ordering: The nursing student is removing her personal protective equipment (PPE) in the anteroom. Place the steps in order (1 to 4 ): Unfasten neck of gown, then waist ties. Pull gown down from each shoulder. Take elastic band of \(\mathrm{N} 95\) respirator from behind the head, discard by holding the band. Grab outside of glove with opposite gloved hand and peel off. Hold removed glove in hand while pulling the second glove inside out over the first glove. Remove face shield by touching the clean earpieces or headband.

Short answer

The correct order is: 1) Glove removal, 2) Gown removal, 3) Face shield removal, 4) N95 respirator removal.

Step-by-step solution

Glove Removal

The first step should be 'Grab outside of glove with opposite gloved hand and peel off. Hold removed glove in hand while pulling the second glove inside out over the first glove.' This is because gloves are usually the most contaminated part of PPE, so they should be removed first to prevent possible contamination.

Gown Removal

The second step should be 'Unfasten neck of gown, then waist ties. Pull gown down from each shoulder.' Once the gloves are removed, removing the gown would be the next logical step as it’s generally next-most contaminated part of PPE.

Face Shield Removal

The third step should be 'Remove face shield by touching the clean earpieces or headband.' This step comes next as the face shield protects the most vulnerable part of the body, the face, and should therefore be removed near to last.

Respirator Removal

The final step should be 'Take elastic band of \(\mathrm{N} 95\) respirator from behind the head, discard by holding the band.' The respirator, providing protection for the breathing, should be last to ensure maximum protection while the other pieces of PPE are being removed.

Key concepts

Infection Control

Infection control is vital in healthcare settings since it reduces the risk of transmission of diseases. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) serves as a key line of defense. Healthcare professionals are trained to follow strict protocols to ensure their own safety and that of their patients. Wearing gloves, gowns, face shields, and respirators helps create a barrier between the healthcare provider and potential infectious agents.

• Gloves protect the hands, which are often in contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.
• Gowns shield the body from splashes and other contaminants.
• Face shields protect the eyes, nose, and mouth, key entry points for pathogens.
• The N95 respirators safeguard the respiratory system by filtering out airborne particles.

Proper use and removal of PPE is critical to preventing self-contamination and cross-contamination. This process helps maintain a safe environment for both healthcare workers and patients. Therefore, following the correct PPE removal sequence is an essential aspect of infection control.

Nursing Education

Nursing education plays a pivotal role in preparing students to handle clinical challenges, including infection control procedures. Students learn about the significance of PPE and the correct sequence for its removal. This knowledge builds confidence and competency in reducing infection risks.
Nurses are taught to prioritize tasks based on levels of contamination risks, which underscores the importance of the PPE removal order. By starting with gloves, which are often the most contaminated, students are solidly embedding best practices.

• Courses focus not just on the *how* but also the *why* behind each step.
• Practical workshops allow for hands-on learning experiences.
• Simulated scenarios help students understand the impact of their actions on patient safety.

Continual education ensures that nurses are up-to-date with the latest infection control practices. This comprehensive approach ensures that by the time they graduate, nursing students are well-prepared to protect themselves and their patients from infections.

NCLEX Preparation

Preparation for the NCLEX exam includes mastering infection control procedures such as the proper PPE removal sequence. This knowledge is not only crucial for passing the exam but also for real-world application in clinical settings. The NCLEX tests not only factual knowledge but also the ability to apply it in practical situations.
The exam aims to evaluate a candidate’s ability to make safe and effective decisions regarding patient care. Infection control scenarios in the NCLEX often reflect the complexities nurses will face in their careers.

• Test questions might simulate real-life situations where candidates must demonstrate proficiency in PPE usage.
• Focus is given to quick decision-making and logical prioritization of actions.
• Practicing with mock exams can help candidates gain confidence in these areas.

Mastery of these concepts helps ensure that future nurses are equipped with the skills needed to maintain high standards of care, as well as successfully pass the NCLEX. This not only benefits the nurse but also enhances the overall safety of healthcare environments.