What item should be removed first when doffing personal protective equipment (PPE)?

When doffing personal protective equipment (PPE), the gloves should be removed first because they are the primary item that becomes contaminated during patient care. The gloves act as a barrier against infectious materials, and removing them first helps prevent the spread of pathogens to the wearer's hands and other surfaces.

Taking off the gloves first reduces the risk of cross-contamination. Once the gloves are disposed of properly, the hands can be sanitized before proceeding to remove other items such as the gown, mask, or face shield. This sequence reflects the principle of infection control, where the most contaminated items are removed first to minimize exposure to pathogens.

The gown should be removed after gloves, as it protects the wearer's clothing and skin from contamination but may also carry pathogens once it is in direct contact with the patient or environment. Following the gown, the mask and face shield can be safely removed, helping to ensure that the wearer maintains a safe level of hygiene throughout the doffing process.