What PPE should be used when performing BLS?

What PPE should be used when performing BLS?

• A. No PPE is required
• B. Disposable gloves and a face shield or mask (e.g., pocket mask) to reduce infection risk.
• C. Only a gown
• D. Only a surgical mask

Answer: (B)

When giving BLS, protecting yourself from exposure to bodily fluids is essential. Wear disposable gloves to prevent contact with saliva, blood, or other fluids, and use a barrier device for ventilation such as a face shield or pocket mask to protect your face and eyes while delivering rescue breaths. This combination covers both hand and facial protection and supports safe ventilation. Choosing no PPE ignores infection risk. A gown alone doesn’t protect your hands or eyes, and a mask alone protects only the nose and mouth but not the eyes or hands. So the glove plus barrier device option best reduces infection risk while allowing effective resuscitation.

When giving BLS, protecting yourself from exposure to bodily fluids is essential. Wear disposable gloves to prevent contact with saliva, blood, or other fluids, and use a barrier device for ventilation such as a face shield or pocket mask to protect your face and eyes while delivering rescue breaths. This combination covers both hand and facial protection and supports safe ventilation.

Choosing no PPE ignores infection risk. A gown alone doesn’t protect your hands or eyes, and a mask alone protects only the nose and mouth but not the eyes or hands. So the glove plus barrier device option best reduces infection risk while allowing effective resuscitation.