What is the primary purpose of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare?

The primary purpose of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare is to protect against exposure to infectious agents. PPE serves as a barrier between healthcare workers and potentially harmful pathogens, reducing the risk of infection and transmission of diseases in clinical settings. This is especially vital when caring for patients who have contagious infections or when performing procedures that may expose workers to blood or other bodily fluids.

While patient comfort, reducing costs, and enhancing the speed of treatment are important aspects of healthcare, they do not address the core function of PPE. Ensuring that healthcare professionals are protected from infectious agents is critical to maintaining a safe environment for both caregivers and patients. Ultimately, effective use of PPE helps to control the spread of infections and contributes to overall public health safety.