Which PPE item is worn to protect the hands from exposure?

• A. Gloves
• B. Masks
• C. Gowns
• D. Goggles

Answer: (A)

Gloves provide the barrier that protects the hands from exposure to germs, blood, body fluids, and some chemicals during patient care. They should be worn whenever there is a risk of contact with fluids or non-intact skin, and when handling contaminated surfaces or instruments. After using gloves, remove them properly and perform hand hygiene to prevent spreading contamination. They come in sterile form for procedures requiring sterility and non-sterile for routine care, but gloves do not replace the need for handwashing. Masks, gowns, and goggles protect other areas or types of exposure (airways, clothing, and eyes, respectively), so they serve different protective purposes.