Which of the following is a recommended component of personal protective equipment?

• A. An eye/mouth protector
• B. Hearing protection
• C. Respirator
• D. Gloves

Answer: (A)

Protecting the eyes and face is essential because exposures to splashes, sprays, chemicals, or bodily fluids can injure the eyes and mucous membranes. An eye/mouth protector (like goggles or a face shield) provides a barrier that guards these vulnerable entry points in many common hospital security situations, including incident response, patient handling, or potential exposure events. This broad protection makes it a foundational PPE element that applies across a wide range of risks.

While other options—such as hearing protection, respirators, or gloves—are important in specific scenarios (heavy noise, airborne hazards, or contact with contaminants), eye/mouth protection covers a broad and frequent risk, making it the best single protective component to emphasize in general PPE practice.