Which of the following is included in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) encompasses a range of tools and clothing designed to protect healthcare workers from exposure to hazardous materials and infections. In this context, gloves are a fundamental component of PPE because they provide a barrier against pathogens when interacting with patients or handling potentially contaminated materials.

Gloves are specifically designed to prevent the transfer of infectious agents between the healthcare provider and the patient, which is essential for maintaining safety and controlling the spread of infections in a medical environment. Their use is mandated in many healthcare settings, particularly during procedures that may involve blood or other bodily fluids.

In contrast, traditional uniforms, regular footwear, and body cameras do not serve the primary function of protecting the wearer from exposure to infections or hazardous substances. While uniforms and certain types of footwear may contribute to a hygienic environment and ensure that workers present a professional appearance, they do not offer the same level of direct protection that gloves provide. Body cameras are tools for documentation and security purposes, lacking relevance to personal health safety. Thus, gloves distinctly represent the core purpose of PPE in medical settings.