Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) Practice Exam

The main purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) is to protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious agents. By utilizing PPE, such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection, healthcare professionals significantly reduce their risk of coming into contact with potentially harmful pathogens during patient care. This protective gear acts as a barrier, preventing the transmission of infections in healthcare settings.

PPE is essential for maintaining the health and safety of staff, allowing them to perform their duties without putting themselves at risk of infection. In the face of various infectious diseases, especially in situations involving blood, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets, the effective use of PPE is crucial in infection prevention and control.

While compliance with governmental regulations and standards of practice is an important aspect of using PPE, the primary focus remains on safeguarding the health of healthcare workers. Additionally, while PPE can indirectly help manage healthcare costs by preventing illness among staff, this is not its primary function. The main goal is firmly rooted in protection from exposure to infectious agents.