What personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when handling blood?

When handling blood, it is essential to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, protective eyewear, and face masks to ensure safety and prevent exposure to potentially infectious materials. Gloves protect the skin from direct contact with blood, which can carry pathogens. Protective eyewear is important to prevent splashes of blood from coming into contact with the eyes, which could lead to infections. A face mask serves to protect the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose from aerosolized droplets that may contain infectious agents. Using all of these pieces of PPE collectively maximizes safety for healthcare workers by minimizing the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This comprehensive approach is a critical component of infection control protocols in clinical settings.