Answer :
Final answer:
A phlebotomist should remove PPE in the following order: gloves, goggles, gown, and mask, to minimize the risk of contamination. After disposal, thorough handwashing is essential.
Explanation:
The correct order in which a phlebotomist should remove their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) after finishing a procedure is: gloves, goggles, gown, and mask.
This sequence helps minimize the potential for cross-contamination and ensures the personal safety of the healthcare worker.
- First, remove the gloves, since they are most likely to be contaminated. Be sure to avoid touching the outside of the gloves with bare skin by inverting one glove off the hand, and then sliding the ungloved finger under the wrist of the remaining glove to peel it off.
- Next, remove the goggles or any eye protection carefully, without touching the front as it could be contaminated. Handle them by the headband or earpieces.
- Then, the removal of the gown should follow. Untie all ties (or unfasten any snaps), then peel the gown away from the neck and shoulders, touching the inside of the gown only, and folding it inward and away from the body.
- Lastly, remove the mask without touching the front as it could be contaminated. Untouch the ties or ear loops and pull it away from the face.
Disposal of these items should be done according to local regulations for biomedical waste, typically in designated biohazard containers. After the removal of PPE, it is essential to wash hands thoroughly to reduce the risk of contamination and spread of infections.
