The use of a disposable gown and mask for significant contact with body fluids, and HEPA mask or N-95 respirator for airborne exposure, falls under which PPE level?

• A. Expanded PPE
• B. Minimum PPE
• C. Full PPE
• D. Standard PPE

Answer: (A)

The situation tests choosing PPE based on varying exposure risks. When there is significant contact with body fluids, you add a disposable gown and a mask to protect against splashes and contamination, and when there’s a chance of airborne exposure you use a respirator such as an N-95 or a HEPA-filtered mask. Combining protection for fluid contact with respiratory protection reflects an intermediate level of precautions designed for higher risk than routine care but not the maximum protection used for the highest-risk scenarios. Standard PPE would not require a gown or a respirator, and full PPE would involve even more extensive gear for the most dangerous situations.