Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT considered PPE?

1. Gloves

2. Protective eyewear

3. Scrubs

4. Masks

The correct answer is: Scrubs

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is defined as gear worn to minimize exposure to hazards that can cause serious injuries or illnesses. The primary goal of PPE is to protect the individual wearing it from health risks in environments such as healthcare settings. In this context, gloves, protective eyewear, and masks are all specifically designed to protect the wearer from potential exposure to infections and bodily fluids, making them essential components of PPE. Gloves act as a barrier against contaminants, protective eyewear shields the eyes from splashes or debris, and masks prevent inhalation of airborne pathogens. Scrubs, while they are a common uniform for dental professionals and contribute to a professional appearance and some level of cleanliness, do not directly serve to protect the wearer from exposure in the same way that gloves, eyewear, and masks do. Scrubs can be considered more of a uniform than PPE, as they do not provide the same level of protective functions as the other items mentioned. Therefore, scrubs are not classified as personal protective equipment in the same way as gloves, protective eyewear, or masks.