What should a flight attendant wear to protect against cross-contamination?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) in maintaining safety and preventing cross-contamination, especially in environments like aviation where hygiene is critical.

PPE is designed to provide a barrier between the wearer and various contaminants that can pose health risks. In the context of flight attendants, wearing appropriate PPE such as masks, gloves, and gowns can significantly reduce the risk of spreading germs, viruses, and other pathogens, particularly during boarding processes, meal services, or situations where close contact with passengers occurs.

While other options like short sleeves or cotton gloves may provide some level of comfort or protection, they do not offer the comprehensive safety features that proper PPE does. Regular clothing, for example, lacks the necessary protective attributes, and short-sleeve attire may potentially expose skin to contaminants. Cotton gloves might seem beneficial but are often not sufficient for medical-grade protection against more serious pathogens or for prolonged use in a flight scenario.

Thus, utilizing personal protective equipment is the most effective and recommended way for flight attendants to guard against cross-contamination, ensuring both their safety and that of the passengers.