Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use is critical for CNAs to prevent infection and maintain a safe care environment. Skill 2 — Donning and Removing PPE is tested on the CNA Skills Exam to ensure candidates understand proper procedures for wearing and safely removing gowns and gloves. Mastering this skill protects both residents and healthcare staff.
For official guidelines on PPE use, visit the CDC PPE Recommendations:
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hcwcontrols/ppe.html
Why Mastering PPE Is Essential for CNAs
Understanding how to correctly don and remove PPE is crucial because it:
- Reduces the risk of cross-contamination
- Ensures compliance with infection-control protocols
- Protects both residents and the CNA from exposure
- Meets state and federal safety requirements
- Demonstrates professionalism and clinical competence
Evaluators pay close attention to every step, especially critical points like glove removal and keeping the gown inside-out during disposal.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Donning PPE (Gown and Gloves)
Follow these steps carefully to meet CNA exam standards:
1. Pick Up and Unfold the Gown
- Select a clean gown
- Fully unfold it without touching the outer surface
- Ensure you are facing the back opening before putting it on
2. Put on the Gown
- Slide arms through each sleeve
- Fasten the neck opening securely
- Tie or secure the waist, making sure your back is fully covered as much as possible
Tip: Ensure the gown fits comfortably without dragging on the floor.
3. Put on Gloves
- Select the correct glove size
- Insert hands fully into gloves
- Make sure the cuffs of gloves overlap the gown sleeves to prevent skin exposure
Step-by-Step Instructions: Removing PPE (Gown and Gloves)
Proper removal prevents contamination of hands and clothing. Follow each step carefully.
1. Remove Gloves Safely
- With one gloved hand, grasp the palm of the opposite glove and pull it off inside-out
- Slide fingers of ungloved hand under the cuff of the remaining glove and remove it inside-out
- Dispose of gloves in the designated waste container
Critical Step: Avoid touching the outside of the gloves with bare hands.
2. Remove the Gown Safely
- Unfasten the gown at the neck and waist
- Do not touch the outside of the gown
- Hold the gown away from your body and turn it inside-out as you remove it
- Keep the gown off the floor and dispose of it in the proper container
3. Wash Hands After Removing PPE
Hand hygiene is required immediately after PPE removal to eliminate any potential contamination:
- Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Dry with a clean towel or air dryer
Hand washing after PPE removal is a critical step during the CNA Skills Exam.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During PPE Use
Many CNA students fail this skill due to small but critical errors:
- Touching the outside of gloves or gown during removal
- Not overlapping glove cuffs with gown sleeves
- Removing the gown without turning it inside-out
- Allowing the gown to drag on the floor
- Forgetting to wash hands immediately after removal
Consistent practice reduces mistakes and increases exam confidence.
Tips for Passing the PPE Skill on Your First Try
- Practice the full sequence of donning and removing PPE multiple times
- Check glove size and gown fit before starting
- Use a timer or count slowly during practice for proper step pacing
- Visualize each step using mnemonics: Gown first, Gloves second; Gloves off first, Gown second
- Keep your hands and gown away from the floor and avoid contamination
Why Donning and Removing PPE Is Critical for Your CNA Career
Mastery of PPE protocols goes beyond passing the exam:
- Ensures resident and staff safety in clinical settings
- Prepares you for handling infectious diseases and exposure scenarios
- Builds professionalism and confidence in infection control practices
- Establishes a foundation for future healthcare certifications
Proper PPE use is a skill CNAs rely on every day in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted living facilities.