What role does personal protective equipment play during first aid?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial in first aid as it primarily helps to avoid infection and disease transmission. When administering first aid, rescuers may come into contact with blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially infectious materials. PPE such as gloves, masks, and gowns serves as a barrier, significantly reducing the risk of pathogens being transferred between the first aid provider and the patient. This protective measure is essential in maintaining the health and safety of both the rescuer and the recipient of care.

While PPE may have collateral benefits, such as providing some physical protection or potentially influencing the responder's psychological state, its primary and most vital role in a first aid context is to ensure that the responders are protected from infections and diseases that can be transmitted in medical emergencies.