Which PPE is essential for contact precautions?

• A. Gown and gloves
• B. N95 respirator
• C. Safety goggles only
• D. Surgical cap only

Answer: (A)

For contact precautions, the priority is creating a barrier against touching contaminated surfaces or secretions. The essential PPE is gown and gloves because they provide that effective barrier for both the healthcare worker’s skin and their clothing when touching the patient or contaminated surfaces.

Other options don’t fit as the required protection for contact transmission: an N95 respirator guards against airborne particles and isn’t needed for routine contact precautions, unless an aerosol-generating procedure is involved. Safety goggles alone protect only the eyes and don’t cover the rest of the body that may contact contaminated surfaces. A surgical cap protects hair and isn’t used by itself for contact precautions.