Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Sterile processing definition

Personal protective equipment is clothing and gear that protects workers from exposure to blood, body fluids and chemicals. In decontamination it typically includes a fluid-resistant gown, gloves, a face shield or goggles with a mask, a head cover and shoe covers. PPE is put on before entering decontamination and removed before leaving it.

On the CRCST exam

Expect questions on what PPE decontamination requires and on taking it off before entering clean areas.

Exam domain: Departmental Considerations (about 15% of the exam)

Departmental Considerations practice questions

Re-entering decontamination from prep and pack
One-way workflow in sterile processing
Decontamination room pressure vs. corridors
Hair and beard covers in prep and pack

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