Here Are Some Things You Need to Know About Medical Gloves

Updated on December 4, 2021

Disposable medical gloves are essential for operations and examinations. 

Surgical gloves are more delicate and more long-lasting than exam gloves. They are designed to mimic the contours of the hand and extend all the way to your forearm. Modern versions like Medrux Disposable Gloves are distinguished by a ribbed surface at the fingertips that aids in instrument attachment. The thickness of gloves and their length will vary depending on intended uses. Thinner gloves are for microsurgical procedures, while thicker ones are for traumatology. More extended models are prevalent among midwives and gynecologists, with cuff lengths up to 480 millimeters.

For both the left and right hands, surgical gloves are marked separately. In comparison, exam gloves are universal in this respect. Most gloves have a unique roller that provides a secure hold on hand.

Surgical and examination gloves are worn for a variety of reasons. They protect medical professionals from germ penetration and contamination, allow safe interaction with patients, and prevent the spread and propagation of bacteria. It is recommended that you still use antiseptics after using gloves, just in case.

All medical procedures require the use of gloves. Gloves should be comfortable, dense, durable, and easy to dispose of.

Consider these factors when selecting gloves:

  • The gloves should fit comfortably around your hand (it’s essential to select the correct size).
  • Good gloves shouldn’t be difficult to use or uncomfortable.
  • Gloves shouldn’t impair tactility.
  • The number of chemicals can cause allergic reactions (as is often the case with latex proteins or other components added in manufacturing).
  • Gloves should be durable, especially when working with sharp tools.

Gloves allow the doctor to work without risk to the doctor and patient safety.

It is crucial to pick gloves according to the intended use and select the right ones. Determine the intended use of the gloves, their type, purpose, material, form, and size.

It is discouraged to use medical gloves a second time, as there are no proven cleaning methods. To ensure that medical and surgical gloves are not damaged, it is essential to look at them carefully before purchasing.

Alternative to latex

According to official statistics, one in ten medical workers has a latex allergy. Until recently, gloves were made entirely from latex, which is derived from rubber tree juice. New materials suitable for glove manufacturing have been developed in response to the increasing number of allergic people to latex. These include polychloroprene, polyisoprene, and polyurethane. They resist abrasions as well as the effects of various chemical solvents and don’t cause skin dryness.

Vinyl gloves are also very popular. These gloves are suitable for use in areas that don’t come into contact with blood. They are affordable but not very durable. 

When are gloves necessary?

Even if you’re using medical gloves, it is essential to wash your hands and treat them with an antiseptic after each use. Keep in mind, however, that gloves do not make you 100% germ-free. Liquid enters vinyl gloves in 40% of cases and 10% in latex. In addition, they are entirely unable to defend your skin against sharp objects. Chemicals like ethanol can quickly get through them and damage your skin.

It is not recommended to wash gloves after performing various procedures or during patient examinations. The material’s permeability will get higher, and impurities will remain.

Medical gloves became standard at the beginning of the twentieth century. The automation of production has led to a higher defection rate. It is common to include an AQL (an acceptable level of product quality) on the packaging. Depending on the type and size of the gloves, the coefficient should not exceed 1.5 or 2.5. The lower it is, the better.

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The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.