Doffing (or taking off) PPE is just as critical of a step at preventing the spread of infectious disease. Proper doffing can prevent cross-contamination of clean areas and stop pathogens from inadvertently leaving the area.

• Remove gloves.  Ensure glove removal does not cause additional contamination of hands. Gloves can be removed using more than one technique (e.g., glove-in-glove or bird beak).
• Remove gown.  Untie all ties (or unsnap all buttons). Some gown ties can be broken rather than untied. Do so in gentle manner, avoiding a forceful movement. Reach up to the shoulders and carefully pull gown down and away from the body. Rolling the gown down is an acceptable approach. Dispose in trash receptacle. *
• Healthcare personnel may now exit patient room.
• Perform hand hygiene.
• Remove face shield or goggles.  Carefully remove face shield or goggles by grabbing the strap and pulling upwards and away from head. Do not touch the front of face shield or goggles.
• Remove and discard respirator (or facemask if used instead of respirator).  Do not touch the front of the respirator or facemask.
  • Respirator:  Remove the bottom strap by touching only the strap and bring it carefully over the head. Grasp the top strap and bring it carefully over the head, and then pull the respirator away from the face without touching the front of the respirator.
  • Facemask:  Carefully untie (or unhook from the ears) and pull away from face without touching the front.
• Perform hand hygiene after removing the respirator/facemask and before putting it on again if your workplace is practicing reuse.