What is the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) required when suctioning an unresponsive patient’s airway?

When suctioning an unresponsive patient's airway, the minimum personal protective equipment (PPE) required is gloves and full facial protection. This is crucial because suctioning can produce aerosols and other bodily fluids that may pose a risk of exposure to infectious pathogens. Full facial protection typically includes a face shield or goggles in addition to a mask, which helps protect the eyes, nose, and mouth from any splashes or droplets that could occur during the procedure.

Using gloves alone is insufficient, as they only protect the hands from direct contact with blood or bodily fluids. Eye protection is also vital because pathogens could easily come into contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, leading to potential transmission of infections. Therefore, utilizing gloves with full facial protection ensures comprehensive coverage and safety for the EMT while performing airway management.

Other combinations of PPE may not provide the same level of protection in all circumstances, especially when dealing with an unresponsive patient, making full facial protection essential in this scenario.