Which statement best describes when standard precautions should be put on during an EMS call?

Which statement best describes when standard precautions should be put on during an EMS call?

• A. Don PPE upon exiting the ambulance, before patient contact
• B. Apply gloves after patient contact
• C. Don PPE after arriving at the scene
• D. Don PPE after transporting the patient

Answer: (A)

Standard precautions are about protecting you from exposure to blood and bodily fluids. In the field, you want a barrier in place before you touch the patient or any surfaces the patient may have contaminated. That means putting on PPE as you exit the ambulance or at the entrance to the scene, before making patient contact. At minimum, wear gloves, and add eye protection, a mask, or a gown as the situation warrants to reduce exposure risk. Putting on PPE after touching the patient, arriving at the scene, or after transporting the patient creates opportunities for exposure and is not protective enough. The goal is to have protection ready before any contact occurs.

Standard precautions are about protecting you from exposure to blood and bodily fluids. In the field, you want a barrier in place before you touch the patient or any surfaces the patient may have contaminated. That means putting on PPE as you exit the ambulance or at the entrance to the scene, before making patient contact. At minimum, wear gloves, and add eye protection, a mask, or a gown as the situation warrants to reduce exposure risk. Putting on PPE after touching the patient, arriving at the scene, or after transporting the patient creates opportunities for exposure and is not protective enough. The goal is to have protection ready before any contact occurs.