Which safety equipment is essential for phlebotomy procedures?

The essential safety equipment for phlebotomy procedures includes goggles and gloves. Gloves are critical to protect the healthcare provider's hands from exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials. They create a barrier against contamination and reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens.

Goggles are equally important as they protect the eyes from splashes and droplets that may occur during the procedure. Phlebotomy can involve blood collection and handling, where there is a possibility of blood spattering. By wearing goggles, phlebotomists safeguard their eyes from any exposure to bloodborne pathogens, ensuring that they maintain a safe working environment.

While gloves alone provide a level of protection, the combination of gloves and goggles offers a more comprehensive approach to infection control during phlebotomy procedures. Other pieces of safety equipment like face masks and lab coats play a role in overall safety and protection, but they do not provide the same level of critical barrier protection in regards to exposure to blood as the combination of goggles and gloves does.