After removing all PPE, in what order should you perform hand hygiene and return to work areas?

Question

Accepted Answer

Remove PPE, wash hands, then return to work areas. The correct sequence is to remove PPE first, then immediately perform hand hygiene before returning to work areas or touching other surfaces. This prevents contamination from any residual pathogens. Returning to work areas before handwashing can spread pathogens. Handwashing while gloved is less effective. Hand hygiene after PPE removal is mandatory, not optional.