What type of equipment includes protective eyewear, surgical masks, gloves, and gowns?

The type of equipment that includes protective eyewear, surgical masks, gloves, and gowns is personal protective equipment (PPE). This category is specifically designed to protect workers and patients from exposure to infectious agents during dental procedures and other healthcare-related tasks.

PPE serves as a barrier to prevent contaminants from reaching the skin, mucous membranes, or clothing, thus reducing the risk of infection transmission. The combination of protective eyewear and surgical masks helps shield the face from splashes, while gloves provide hand protection, and gowns protect clothing and skin from spills or splatter.

Other options such as environmental controls address the management of the physical environment to reduce the risk of infection, clinical instruments are tools used directly in patient care, and hazardous waste containers are designated for the disposal of biohazardous materials. These do not encompass the same protective attributes aimed at safeguarding individuals directly during procedures as personal protective equipment does.