•Purpose of gown use: Isolation gowns are preferred, especially if there is potential contamination of the arms.
•Gowns should fully cover the torso, fit comfortably over the body, and have long sleeves that fit snugly at the wrist.
•Material
•Isolation gowns are made either of cotton or a spun synthetic material that dictate whether they can be laundered and reused or must be disposed.
•Cotton and spun synthetic isolation gowns vary in their degree of fluid resistance, another factor that must be considered in the selection of this garb.
•If fluid penetration is likely, a fluid resistant gown should be used.
•Patient Risk
•Clean gowns are used for isolation.
•Sterile gowns are only necessary for performing invasive procedures, such as inserting a central line.