In infection control, what does PPE stand for?

The correct answer is Personal Protective Equipment. This term refers to specialized clothing or equipment worn by healthcare workers to protect themselves from exposure to infectious materials and harmful agents. PPE is critical in infection control because it serves as a barrier between the healthcare worker and potential contaminants, minimizing the risk of transmission of infections.

PPE includes items such as gloves, gowns, masks, face shields, and respirators. Each of these components plays an essential role in various healthcare settings, especially when dealing with patients who have infectious diseases. The proper use and disposal of PPE are crucial in maintaining safety standards and controlling infection spread, thus safeguarding both healthcare workers and patients.

In the context of infection control, prioritizing the use of Personal Protective Equipment ensures compliance with safety protocols and helps prevent outbreaks of healthcare-associated infections.