A client with MRSA requires direct contact precautions. What PPE is required for direct care?

• A. Gown and gloves; perform hand hygiene before and after; remove PPE before leaving the room.
• B. N95 mask and gloves.
• C. Gown only.
• D. Face shield only.

Answer: (D)

Direct contact precautions focus on preventing transmission through skin-to-skin contact and from contaminated surfaces, so the essential protection is gown and gloves. Put on the gown and gloves before touching the patient, perform hand hygiene before and after patient contact, and remove the PPE before leaving the room in the correct sequence to prevent contaminating yourself or the surrounding environment. A mask like an N95 isn’t required for MRSA contact precautions because the concern isn’t airborne spread. A face shield alone won’t protect hands or clothing from contact with contaminated surfaces, though eye protection is added if there’s a splash risk. So, gown and gloves with diligent hand hygiene best meet the protection needs for direct care with MRSA.