Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) plays a crucial role in protecting healthcare workers and patients from infectious diseases, chemical exposure, and cross-contamination. From routine checkups to high-risk procedures, PPE ensures a safe clinical environment and reduces the spread of harmful pathogens.
This comprehensive guide explains the different types of PPE used in healthcare, when they’re used, and why each item is essential. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, safety manager, or student, this article provides a clear, structured overview aligned with today’s infection-control standards.
What Is PPE in Healthcare?
PPE refers to specialized equipment healthcare workers wear to create a barrier between themselves and potential hazards. These hazards include:
- Infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi)
- Bodily fluids
- Chemicals and disinfectants
- Environmental contaminants
PPE helps minimize occupational risks—making proper usage critical for effective infection prevention and control (IPC).
Why PPE Matters in Healthcare
Using PPE correctly:
- Prevents infection transmission
- Protects vulnerable patients
- Reduces occupational exposure risks
- Enhances workplace safety
- Supports regulatory compliance (CDC, OSHA, WHO)
PPE is a foundational part of modern infection-control programs, especially during outbreaks or high-risk procedures.
Types of PPE Used in Healthcare
Healthcare settings use a wide range of PPE to protect workers from infections, bodily fluids, and hazardous materials. Each type of equipment serves a specific purpose, helping reduce cross-contamination and maintain a safe environment for both patients and staff. Below are the most common PPE items used across hospitals, clinics, and emergency care.
1. Gloves
Gloves are the most frequently used piece of PPE. They protect against contamination during patient care, cleaning, and handling hazardous materials.
Common Types:
- Exam gloves (latex, nitrile, neoprene)
- Surgical gloves (sterile, high precision)
- Chemotherapy-rated gloves
- Heavy-duty utility gloves (for cleaning/disinfection)
Used For:
- Blood draws
- Wound care
- Handling biological samples
- Performing surgeries
- Cleaning contaminated surfaces
2. Medical Masks
Masks help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets and protect the wearer from airborne contaminants.
Common Types:
- Surgical masks – Barrier against splashes and droplets
- Procedure masks – Similar to surgical masks, used for general care
- N95 respirators – Filter at least 95% of airborne particles
- Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) – Used in high-risk infectious disease care
Used For:
- Respiratory infection control
- Aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs)
- Surgical and sterile environments
3. Face Shields
Face shields provide a transparent, full-face barrier that protects the eyes, nose, and mouth from splashes and sprays.
Used For:
- Procedures with splash or spray risks
- Dental procedures
- Emergency and trauma care
- Use alongside masks for enhanced protection
4. Eye Protection
Eye protection prevents exposure to infectious droplets and harmful fluids.
Types:
- Safety goggles
- Protective glasses with side shields
Used For:
- Laboratory work
- Surgery
- Any environment with splash hazards
5. Gowns
Medical gowns protect skin and clothing from contamination.
Types:
- Isolation gowns
- Surgical gowns
- Non-sterile disposable gowns
- Fluid-resistant or fluid-impermeable gowns
Used For:
- Patient isolation rooms
- Surgeries
- Handling infectious materials
6. Coveralls
Coveralls provide full-body protection and are used in high-risk environments.
Features:
- Head-to-toe coverage
- Often used with respiratory protection
Used For:
- Highly infectious disease outbreaks (e.g., Ebola)
- Environmental cleaning and decontamination
7. Shoe Covers
Shoe covers reduce the transfer of contaminants through footwear.
Used For:
- Surgical suites
- Isolation areas
- Cleanrooms
8. Head Covers / Bouffant Caps
Head covers prevent hair and skin particles from shedding into sterile fields.
Used For:
- Operating rooms
- Maternity suites
- Sterile environments
9. Aprons
Aprons provide an extra layer of fluid resistance, often worn over gowns.
Used For:
- High-fluid procedures (e.g., labor & delivery)
- Environmental cleaning
- Laboratory settings
How to Use PPE Correctly
Using PPE the right way is just as important as wearing it. Correct use helps prevent contamination and keeps both healthcare workers and patients safe.
1. Donning (Putting PPE On)
- Wash or sanitize your hands.
- Put on items in the correct order: gown → mask/respirator → eye protection → gloves.
- Make sure everything fits properly and covers exposed skin.
2. While Wearing PPE
- Avoid touching your face, mask, or goggles.
- Do not adjust PPE unless necessary.
- Replace PPE if it becomes damaged, wet, or visibly soiled.
3. Doffing (Removing PPE)
- Remove PPE carefully to avoid self-contamination.
- Take off gloves first, then eye protection, gown, and mask last.
- Dispose of used PPE safely in designated containers.
- Wash or sanitize your hands immediately after removal.
Final Thoughts
Healthcare PPE is essential for maintaining safe clinical environments. From gloves and masks to gowns and respirators, each piece plays a unique role in preventing contamination and protecting both staff and patients. Understanding the different types of PPE—and how to use them properly—helps ensure the highest standards of healthcare safety.