What personal protective equipment is essential when dealing with potential blood exposure?

Gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) when dealing with potential blood exposure because they serve as a barrier between the skin and infectious materials. Since blood can contain a variety of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria that pose serious health risks, gloves help to prevent direct contact and reduce the likelihood of transmission.

While other forms of PPE, such as face masks, eye protection, and lab coats, play important roles in certain situations, gloves are specifically critical when there is a risk of exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. They are designed to be disposable, ensuring that once they have been used in a situation where exposure could occur, they can be safely removed and discarded, minimizing the risk to the wearer and others. In clinical or laboratory environments where blood exposure may happen, wearing gloves is a fundamental practice in maintaining safety and preventing contamination.