Why are gloves donned last?

Why are gloves donned last?

• A. To keep them clean
• B. Because they are the most important barrier
• C. To avoid contamination of the gown
• D. To simplify the sequence

Answer: (A)

Maintaining sterility during the donning sequence is the key idea. Gloves are donned last to keep them clean and to protect the sterile field. After the gown is on, the arms are inside the sleeves, and you want to avoid transferring contaminants to the hands or to the gloves as you finish dressing. If gloves were worn first, the act of putting on the gown could contaminate the gloves or spread contaminants to the gown, compromising the barrier. By putting on gloves last, the outer surfaces you touch remain sterile and your hands stay clean until you’re ready to work within the sterile field. The other reasons listed don’t address how the order specifically preserves glove cleanliness and overall sterility.

Maintaining sterility during the donning sequence is the key idea. Gloves are donned last to keep them clean and to protect the sterile field. After the gown is on, the arms are inside the sleeves, and you want to avoid transferring contaminants to the hands or to the gloves as you finish dressing. If gloves were worn first, the act of putting on the gown could contaminate the gloves or spread contaminants to the gown, compromising the barrier. By putting on gloves last, the outer surfaces you touch remain sterile and your hands stay clean until you’re ready to work within the sterile field. The other reasons listed don’t address how the order specifically preserves glove cleanliness and overall sterility.