What is the minimum personal protective equipment required during procedures with potential blood exposure?

The minimum personal protective equipment required during procedures that have the potential for blood exposure includes gloves and eye protection. Gloves serve as a critical barrier to protect the hands from coming into direct contact with blood, which can harbor infectious agents. Eye protection is also essential, as it helps prevent blood or other bodily fluids from splashing into the eyes, which could pose a risk of infection.

In healthcare settings, where exposure to bloodborne pathogens is possible, it is vital to ensure that both the skin and mucous membranes (such as the eyes) are adequately protected. This practice is an integral part of universal precautions aimed at minimizing the risk of transmission of infectious diseases.

Other options, such as only using masks or gowns, do not provide comprehensive protection against the risks associated with potential blood exposure. Masks are essential for respiratory protection, but in the context of blood exposure, they do not safeguard against contact with blood or body fluids. Gowns alone offer protection to the torso and arms but fail to address the risk of exposure to the eyes or hands without gloves. Therefore, the combination of gloves and eye protection represents the standard for minimizing exposure risks effectively.