What is the purpose of PPE in preventing cross-contamination among patients?

• A. To protect equipment
• B. To identify staff
• C. To decorate the workspace
• D. To protect healthcare workers and prevent pathogen transmission between patients

Answer: (D)

PPE creates a protective barrier that stops pathogens from moving from one patient to another via the healthcare worker’s hands, clothing, or surfaces they touch. When gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection are used appropriately, they reduce the chance that microbes from one patient are carried to the next, which is the essence of preventing cross-contamination. This is why the purpose is to protect healthcare workers and prevent pathogen transmission between patients. PPE isn’t about protecting equipment, identifying staff, or decorating the workspace. For best effect, use the right PPE for the risk, perform proper donning and doffing, and practice good hand hygiene between patients.