What personal protective equipment (PPE) is often required for blood draws?

Gloves are a critical component of personal protective equipment (PPE) required for blood draws because they provide a barrier between the healthcare worker's skin and blood, thereby minimizing the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. During any procedure that involves potential contact with blood, wearing gloves helps protect both the patient and the healthcare provider from the transmission of infectious diseases.

While gowns, face shields, and boot covers have their specific uses in healthcare settings, they are not universally necessary for every blood draw. Gowns may be appropriate in situations where splashing of bodily fluids is likely, face shields provide protection against splashes to the face, and boot covers may be used in specific scenarios involving contamination risk to footwear. However, gloves are the minimal and essential standard for ensuring safety during blood collection procedures. They are a crucial practice in maintaining hygiene and minimizing infection risk in healthcare settings.