Which of the following is an example of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to the specialized clothing or equipment worn by an individual for protection against health and safety hazards. The pocket mask, which covers the mouth and part of the nose, fits this definition well as it is primarily used to prevent the respiratory droplets of the rescuer from contaminating the patient during rescue breathing or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It acts as a barrier, minimizing the risk of transmitting infectious agents during such procedures.

In contrast, a stethoscope is a medical instrument used for auscultation, allowing healthcare providers to listen to internal body sounds but does not offer any protection to the user from hazards. Similarly, an Ambu bag, while essential for providing positive pressure ventilation, is a device used for patient care rather than equipment intended to protect the healthcare provider. A defibrillator, which is used to restore a normal heart rhythm in cardiac arrest situations, also falls into the category of medical devices rather than PPE. Thus, the pocket mask stands out as the correct example of personal protective equipment in this context.