Which personal protective equipment should be worn while handling soiled linen?

When handling soiled linen, wearing gloves is essential for protecting oneself from exposure to pathogens, bodily fluids, and other contaminants. Gloves create a barrier that helps prevent the transfer of germs and bacteria that may be present on the soiled material. This is crucial in maintaining both the caregiver's health and the overall hygiene of the healthcare environment.

The use of gloves aligns with standard infection control protocols, which emphasize the importance of personal protective equipment when interacting with potentially hazardous materials. While other types of personal protective equipment like lab coats, face masks, or goggles serve specific purposes in certain situations, gloves are particularly necessary for tasks involving direct contact with soiled items, ensuring safety and reducing the risk of infection.