A nurse is caring for a client on airborne precautions. During care, the client coughs and the nurse notices a tear in the left glove. Place the following actions in the correct order.

Quick answer
The correct sequence addresses the immediate risk of glove tear contamination, then follows CDC removal sequence: remove gown and gloves together, remove eye protection, exit and close door, remove N95 respirator, and perform hand hygiene.

Why this is correct
A torn glove compromises the nurse's protection during ongoing care. The nurse must replace it promptly, then follow the CDC sequence for removing PPE after airborne precautions.

Clinical picture
In airborne precautions, the N95 respirator must remain on until after leaving the room and closing the door to prevent inhalation of infectious particles. Hand hygiene is performed after glove removal and after all PPE is removed.

Memory hook
CDC PPE removal sequence: gloves and gown together, eye protection, leave room, remove respirator, hand hygiene.

NCLEX decision rule
Address breaches in PPE immediately; always remove the respirator outside the airborne isolation room.

Why the alternatives are wrong
Removing the gown before addressing the glove tear would prolong exposure. Removing the N95 respirator inside the room would risk inhalation of airborne pathogens. Performing hand hygiene only at the end would leave hands contaminated after glove removal.