What is the purpose of wearing a gown as part of personal protective equipment?

Wearing a gown as part of personal protective equipment is primarily intended to protect the phlebotomist's clothing from contamination. This is essential in a clinical setting, particularly when dealing with blood or bodily fluids, as any exposure can pose a risk of transmitting infections or pathogens. The gown serves as a barrier, preventing contaminants from contacting the skin or clothing of healthcare providers, thereby reducing the risk of cross-contamination between patients, as well as maintaining a clean environment for procedures.

While professionalism, patient comfort, and maintaining warmth are important in a healthcare setting, the primary role of a gown is to provide a sanitary barrier. By protecting personal clothing, it helps ensure that healthcare workers do not inadvertently carry pathogens out of the procedure room or cause an illness to themselves or other patients.