Which personal protective equipment should be used when there is potential exposure to blood?

Using gloves is essential when there is potential exposure to blood due to their role in protecting the caregiver’s hands from direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids, thereby reducing the risk of infections and contamination. Gloves act as a barrier, preventing pathogens from entering through cuts or abrasions on the skin.

While aprons, masks, and goggles provide important protections in specific scenarios, they do not specifically address the primary concern of direct blood exposure to the skin. Aprons are useful for protecting clothing and skin from splashes, but they do not cover the hands. Masks protect the respiratory system from airborne pathogens, and goggles shield the eyes from splashes but are not designed to protect the skin against blood exposure. Therefore, gloves are the most suitable choice in this context, prioritizing direct protection against bloodborne pathogens during care activities.