Which item is considered personal protective equipment (PPE) in a dental setting?

Protective eyewear is considered personal protective equipment (PPE) in a dental setting because it serves a vital role in safeguarding the dental professional's eyes from potential hazards. During dental procedures, there is a risk of exposure to blood, saliva, and other substances that could splash or splatter. Wearing protective eyewear helps prevent these materials from coming into contact with the eyes, reducing the likelihood of injury or infection.

In contrast, patient gowns, while important for patient comfort and hygiene, do not provide protection to the healthcare workers. Dental chairs, on the other hand, are an essential part of the dental environment, but they are not PPE; they are inanimate objects that facilitate dental treatment. Disinfectants are used for cleaning and infection control but do not serve as protective gear for personnel. Hence, protective eyewear is categorized as PPE because it is specifically designed to protect the wearer during clinical procedures.