What should be worn when encountering body fluids from all patients?

Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when encountering body fluids from all patients because it provides a comprehensive barrier against exposure to infectious agents. PPE encompasses a variety of items, including gloves, gowns, face masks, and eye protection, ensuring that multiple pathways of potential contamination are addressed.

Gloves are critical for handling any body fluids to protect the hands, but they alone do not safeguard other areas of the body that could be exposed. Gowns are also important for preventing contamination of clothing and skin, especially when splashes and spills might occur. Face masks add an additional layer of protection against respiratory droplets and contact with mucous membranes.

By utilizing the full spectrum of PPE, individuals are better equipped to minimize the risk of infection transmission in a clinical setting, particularly when dealing with potentially infectious materials. This holistic approach to infection control is aligned with best practices in safety protocols.