What it means
The removal of PPE in a set order so the outside, which may be contaminated, does not touch the wearer's skin or clothes. In one CDC sequence, gloves come off first, then goggles or face shield, then the gown, then the mask or respirator, with hand hygiene at the end; another CDC method removes gown and gloves together. Putting PPE on is called donning.
For the nurse
Remove everything except a respirator at the doorway or in an anteroom, and take off the respirator after leaving the room and closing the door. Do hand hygiene right after removing all PPE, and any time hands become soiled.
At a glance
| Also written | doff, doffed |
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Related terms
precaution
A step taken ahead of time to prevent harm, such as the infection-control practices used with every client.
hand hygiene
Cleaning the hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
PAPR
Powered air-purifying respirator: a respirator with a battery fan that pushes filtered air into a hood or mask.