Which of the following is a common type of PPE used in healthcare?

In healthcare settings, personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for maintaining the safety of both healthcare workers and patients. The correct choice highlights essential items such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection, which are used to create barriers against potential exposure to infectious agents.

Gloves provide a barrier to protect hands when handling contaminated materials or bodily fluids, thus minimizing the risk of infections. Masks are essential for respiratory protection, preventing the inhalation of airborne pathogens and protecting the mouth and nose of the healthcare provider. Gowns are important for protecting skin and clothing from contamination during procedures, particularly in environments where exposure to blood or bodily fluids is a risk. Eye protection is critical in safeguarding the eyes from splashes and sprays, which can also carry infectious materials.

The other options do not represent common types of PPE. Surgical instruments and binding materials are tools for procedures, not protective equipment. Hospital beds and medical charts are elements of patient care logistics, lacking protective function. Similarly, medication and therapy equipment are integral to treatment but do not serve as personal protective gear. Therefore, the choice that includes gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection accurately reflects the components of PPE commonly utilized in healthcare environments.