Which of the following is NOT considered personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The stethoscope is not considered personal protective equipment (PPE) because it is primarily a medical instrument used for listening to internal body sounds. While it is essential for healthcare providers to perform assessments, it does not serve as a protective barrier against infection or contamination. On the other hand, gloves, goggles, and masks are all designed specifically to protect healthcare workers and patients from exposure to infectious agents. Gloves provide a barrier to prevent contact with bodily fluids; goggles protect the eyes from splashes or aerosols that may carry pathogens; and masks help filter out airborne infectious particles, thereby reducing the risk of transmission. Therefore, the stethoscope does not fit the definition of PPE, as it does not offer physical protection against hazards in the healthcare environment.