A PCT prepares to check vital signs on an isolation patient with influenza, has a gown, gloves, surgical mask, and goggles ready, and must later remove them without self-contamination before hand hygiene. Which correct donning and doffing sequence should the PCT follow for PPE?

For this influenza isolation care, put on the gown first, then the surgical mask, goggles, and gloves over the gown cuffs. This covers clothing and mucous membranes before gloves, which are likely to become contaminated. To remove PPE without self-contamination, take off the gloves first, then goggles, gown, and mask, avoiding the contaminated outer surfaces; perform hand hygiene immediately afterward. Putting on gloves before the gown, mask, and goggles risks exposing the wrists and contaminating later items, while removing the mask first brings contaminated hands near the face. Putting on the mask before the gown and gloves before the goggles does not establish the intended barrier order; removing the gown before the mask and gloves leaves contaminated gloves in place while handling other PPE. Putting on goggles and gloves before the mask and gown reverses the protective sequence, and removing items in that same order leaves the mask and gown until the end rather than removing gloves first. Exam caveat: follow facility policy and the isolation sign, since specific PPE procedures can vary; hand hygiene is needed before donning and immediately after doffing. Practical check: inspect PPE for damage, secure it, and avoid touching its front surfaces while removing it.