A Guide to Choose the Right Pair of Medical Gloves

Wearing protective gear while performing medical tasks is not only significant for the safety of the patients but for the medical professional as well. Disposable gloves are a common and essential protective item that is worn by almost every level of medical professionals.

They are an everyday essential item that is used by doctors, surgeons, nurses, dentists, lab techs, emergency responders, and every other individual who works in the healthcare field. Choosing the right pair of gloves becomes all the more important. Whether you need latex medical exam gloves or any other material-based gloves, a few things need to be considered.

Below we have listed out some areas of considerations for you to pick the right pair of medical gloves for use. Continue to read till the end to find out all about medical gloves.

 

1.   Certain characteristics of gloves

Categorized either for examination gloves or surgical gloves, disposable gloves are readily available in the market. Nurses or caregivers usually make use of disposable exam gloves for ensuring protection against contamination when they are coming in direct contact with their patients.

On the other hand, surgeons use more advanced gloves that are specially designed to perform surgical tasks. These surgical gloves offer greater precision, sizing, and sensitivity. Now whether you purchase surgical or examination gloves, an important thing that you must take care of is that they must provide protection from bodily fluids and disease.

Also, they must be comfortable to the touch since you are to wear them when performing your task. You cannot perform well if you have an uncomfortable glove on.

 

2.  Choosing between powdered or non-powdered gloves

Both powdered and unpowdered gloves are readily used as medical gloves. The powdered gloves are easy to put on and take off as the cornstarch powder inside it acts as lubricants for the hand.

However, it is to be noted that this type of glove could be problematic if the person putting it on has an open wound. The powder can get on to your wounds or open cuts easily. This is why non-powdered gloves are a better option to choose between the two.

Most medical professionals use non-powdered gloves with an inner coating while performing their tasks for the best use.

 

3.   Opting for the right material of the gloves

There are predominantly three materials that are used for the making of medical gloves. Latex, vinyl, and nitrile are the three materials used for most medical gloves.

Latex gloves are preferably used for high-risk scenarios that may involve handling infectious elements. They have great elasticity and are durable as well. They even offer mid-range protection with a comfy fit for the hands. However, some patients and health professionals are allergic to latex.

Vinyl gloves are low in cost and provide a decent level of comfort for the hands. Made out of polyvinyl chloride, these gloves are primarily used for low-risk tasks or touching of non-hazardous materials. However, they aren’t as durable as latex gloves.

Nitrile gloves are commonly used as an alternative option for latex gloves if someone has an allergy to latex material. It offers great durability that is ideal to be used when handling sharp objects or instruments. These gloves are perfect for a long time use as well.

 

Conclusion

Considering the above-enumerated factors make your choice for the right pair of medical gloves. Whether you want to opt for latex medical exam gloves or any other type, check the aforementioned elements for sure.