The selection of a medical gown to wear should match the clinical situation.
Basis for classification: ability to act as a barrier to penetration by liquids or liquid-borne pathogens.
Standard: ANSI/AAMI PB70
Protection
|
Situation Risk
|
Level
|
slight barrier to small amounts of fluid
|
minimal
|
1
|
barrier to small to moderate amounts of fluid from splatter or limited soaking
|
low
|
2
|
barrier to moderate amounts of fluid with more soaking than level 2
|
moderate
|
3
|
barrier to large amounts of fluid over a long period; prevents all fluid penetration for up to 1 hour; significant risk of an infectious disease
|
high
|
4
|
In addition, critical zones may be recognized based on the intended use (surgical gown, isolation gown, etc).