When should facial protection (goggles or face shield) be used?

Facial protection, such as goggles or a face shield, should be used specifically when there is a risk of splashes or sprays of blood or bodily fluids. This is crucial in protecting the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth from potential contamination, which can lead to transmission of infectious agents. The use of facial protection is a key component of personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings, particularly in procedures that involve the potential for exposure to blood or other infectious materials.

While the other options may reflect situations that involve some level of risk, they do not align with the specific guideline that facial protection is intended for circumstances with a direct risk of splatter or spray. For example, while wearing facial protection during all patient interactions could be overly cautious and impractical, its use is warranted only in high-risk scenarios. In surgical settings, although there is a risk of exposure, the requirement for facial protection is based on whether there is potential for splashes, not simply because a procedure is surgical in nature. Similarly, handling sterile instruments does not inherently require face protection unless there is a concurrent risk of blood exposure. Thus, the context of the procedure and the associated risks is what dictates the necessity of facial protection.