How many times can a gown be worn before it needs to be discarded?

The correct answer states that a gown can typically be worn only once before it needs to be discarded. This is primarily due to infection control protocols in healthcare settings, which aim to prevent the spread of contaminants and ensure patient safety. Wearing a gown only once minimizes the risk of transmission of pathogens between patients or in a clinical environment.

Infection prevention guidelines emphasize that gowns worn during procedures involving exposure to bodily fluids, or in situations where there is a risk of contamination, should not be reused. Even if the gown does not appear visibly soiled, it can still harbor infectious agents. Therefore, discarding the gown after each use is a critical practice in maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for both patients and healthcare workers.