In the PPE donning sequence for high-risk isolation, which item is donned second?

• A. Gown
• B. Mask or respirator
• C. Eye protection
• D. Gloves

Answer: (B)

The sequence tests the proper order for donning PPE to prevent self-contamination in high-risk isolation. After you put on the gown to cover clothing, the next step is the mask or respirator. Placing the mask on second seals off the airway and mucous membranes early, creating the first line of defense for your face. Doing this before adding eye protection or gloves helps ensure a clean face seal and reduces the chance that contaminated hands or surfaces will touch the nose or mouth while you’re donning the rest of the gear.

Eye protection comes next to shield the eyes from splashes, followed by gloves last so that your hands remain protected when you complete the barrier layers and don the final pieces. Putting on gloves too early would risk contaminating the other PPE during the remaining steps, so keeping them as the final layer preserves the integrity of the entire set.

If you’re using a respirator, you’d also perform the appropriate seal check after donning it to ensure a proper fit.