Which PPE is required for a patient with suspected airborne infection in the OR?

• A. Surgical mask, eye protection, gloves, and a gown as indicated.
• B. N95 respirator only.
• C. N95 respirator (or higher), eye protection, gloves, and a gown as indicated.
• D. Powered air-purifying respirator only.

Answer: (C)

To protect the airway and mucous membranes from airborne pathogens, you need a layered approach: a fit-tested respirator provides filtration for inhaled air, eye protection shields the eyes from aerosols, and gloves plus a gown offer barrier protection for skin and clothing as appropriate for the procedure. An N95 respirator (or higher) is required to filter airborne particles, and it must be worn with eye protection and barrier PPE. A surgical mask alone does not reliably protect against aerosols, and a respirator by itself omits necessary eye protection and barrier garments. A powered air-purifying respirator can be used in high-risk situations, but not as the sole requirement in standard precautions. Therefore, the arrangement of N95 (or higher) respirator, eye protection, gloves, and a gown as indicated provides the appropriate protection.