What should be the first action when donning personal protective equipment?

The correct first action when donning personal protective equipment (PPE) is to perform hand hygiene. This step is crucial as it helps to eliminate any pathogens on the hands before any PPE is applied. By ensuring that your hands are clean before you touch any protective gear, you minimize the risk of contaminating the PPE and subsequently spreading infections.

Hand hygiene can include washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This practice not only protects the individual donning the PPE but also aids in the overall infection control measures in any healthcare setting. Following proper hand hygiene establishes a clean foundation, setting the stage for effective use of other PPE, like gowns, masks, or gloves, to provide a barrier against potential contaminants.