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656 Bloodborne Pathogens in the Healthcare Setting
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Using Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is specialized clothing or equipment that protects you from exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material.

Personal protective equipment, such as this face shield, protect employees from accidental exposure.

Personal protective equipment is designed to keep blood and other potentially infectious material away from your skin, eyes, and mouth.

Examples of PPE include: disposable gloves, gowns, laboratory coats, protective face shields, resuscitation masks or shields, and mouth pieces. Any equipment necessary to prevent exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material is considered PPE.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

9-1. How does PPE protect you from exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM)?