1. Perform hand hygiene.
2. Applying cap:
   1. If hair is long, comb back behind ears and secure. Secure hair in place with pins.
   2. Apply cap over head as one would apply hairnet. Be sure all hair fits under edges of cap.
3. Applying mask:
   1. Find top edge of mask, which usually has a thin metal strip along edge.
   2. Hold mask by top two strings or loops, keeping top edge above bridge of nose.
   3. Tie two top strings at top of back of head, over cap (if worn), with strings above ears.
   4. Tie two lower ties snugly around neck with mask well under chin.
   5. Gently pinch upper metal band around bridge of nose.
4. Applying protective eyewear:
   1. Apply protective glasses, goggles, or face shield comfortably over eyes, and check that vision is clear.
   2. Be sure eyewear fits snugly around forehead and face.
5. Apply sterile gloves if needed.
6. Removing mask, protective eyewear, and cap:
   1. Remove gloves first, if worn, and perform hand hygiene.
   2. Untie bottom strings of mask.
   3. Untie top strings of mask, and remove mask from face, holding ties securely. Discard mask in proper trash receptacle.
   4. Remove eyewear, avoiding placing hands over soiled lens. Discard in proper trash receptacle. If wearing face shield, remove it before removal of mask and discard in proper trash receptacle. NOTE: A combination mask and eyewear is available in some institutions.
   5. Grasp outer surface of cap, and lift from hair.
   6. Discard cap in proper trash receptacle, and perform hand hygiene.

Excerpted and adapted from Perry AG, Potter PA: Clinical nursing skills & techniques, ed 7, St. Louis, 2010, Mosby.

Last Reviewed: June 2009