West Coast EMT Block One Exam

When should gloves, a mask, eye protection, and a face shield be used?

1. Whenever you touch nonintact skin

2. During routine cleaning of the ambulance

3. While handling needles or other sharps

4. When performing endotracheal intubation

The correct answer is: When performing endotracheal intubation

The use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, a mask, eye protection, and a face shield is critical during procedures that have a high risk of exposure to blood, bodily fluids, or respiratory secretions. Endotracheal intubation is a specific procedure in which a tube is inserted into a patient’s airway to assist with breathing, and it can generate aerosols or secretions that can pose a risk of infection to the healthcare provider. In this context, wearing gloves protects against contact with potentially infectious materials, while the mask and face shield serve as barriers to droplets that may spread during the procedure. Eye protection is particularly important because it helps prevent contamination from splashes that could reach the mucous membranes of the eyes. The other situations listed do not carry the same level of risk for exposure. Touching nonintact skin or handling needles does warrant precautions, but they do not require a full set of protective gear like intubation does. Routine ambulance cleaning, while important for infection control, typically follows different protocols regarding personal protective equipment. Thus, the correct scenario for using a comprehensive set of protective gear is indeed during endotracheal intubation.