Why is it important for first responders to select the appropriate personal protective equipment before providing medical assistance to a sick or injured person?

First responders choose appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce the risk of exposure to germs and prevent infectious diseases from spreading between the patient and rescuer. PPE is important even when a patient’s infection status is unknown; it is not only for people known to carry bloodborne diseases. Therefore, the best answer is “to prevent transmission of infectious disease.”

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