Infection Control Manual, Standard Precautions

Standard Precautions


	Gloves

	Gowns

	Protective Eyewear

	Face Shields

	Masks

	Respirators

Sharps Disposal

Patient/Visitor Exposures

Linen/Laundry Services

Medical Emergencies

Select Chapter:

Yale New Haven Hospital
QISS
GB 325
New Haven, CT
06504 USA

Dr. Jeff Topal
688-4634


Gowns

Gowns, aprons, and other protective apparel are worn to prevent clothing from becoming soiled with blood and body substances. Selection of the appropriate type of protective apparel is based on the amount of blood and body substances likely to be encountered and the probability that clothing may by soiled. Gowns should be worn:

	During activities that involve the management of large amounts of blood or body substances that may be difficult to contain properly.
	During procedures that may result in the splashing or splattering of blood or body substances.

Gowns should be:

	Large enough to cover the clothing which is likely to be contaminated.
	Made of a moisture-resistant material that provides an effective barrier to body substances.
	Sterile gowns should be worn for procedures that require a sterile field.

Gowns should be changed:

	After giving care to an individual patient.
	After performing any procedure involving instruments, equipment, or surfaces contaminated by blood or body substances.
	Whenever gross soiling occurs.

Discard used gowns in the patient care area or in the other areas in which they were used.

Last modified: September 30, 2002.