What is the first step in donning PPE for emptying a urinary drainage bag?

Performing hand hygiene first is crucial in the process of donning personal protective equipment (PPE) for emptying a urinary drainage bag. Hand hygiene serves as the foundational step in preventing the spread of infection. By thoroughly washing hands or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before touching any equipment or PPE, the healthcare provider drastically reduces the risk of contaminating themselves or the patient.

This step emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and infection control protocols in healthcare settings. It establishes a clean baseline, ensuring that the individual is starting the procedure with clean hands, which is essential for maintaining a safe and sanitary environment when dealing with bodily fluids. Following this step, the individual can then proceed to put on gloves, gown, and any other necessary protective gear without introducing pathogens into the process.