Which of the following items is NOT typically included in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is specifically designed to protect healthcare workers from exposure to hazards, including infectious materials, chemicals, or physical risks. Each item within PPE serves a distinct purpose to safeguard the health and safety of individuals in healthcare settings.

Gloves are used to create a barrier between potentially infectious materials and the skin, ensuring that contamination does not occur during procedures. Goggles protect the eyes from splashes and harmful droplets, while masks are essential for covering the respiratory system and preventing inhalation of infectious agents.

Stethoscopes, while essential tools for healthcare providers, are not considered PPE. They are used for auscultation and do not offer protective barriers against exposure to hazardous substances. Thus, they do not fall under the category of equipment specifically designed to protect against risks encountered in clinical settings. This distinction clarifies why stethoscopes are not included in the items categorized as PPE.