Understanding the Proper Use of Disposable Gloves

Understanding the Proper Use of Disposable Gloves

by Cetrix Store on August 01, 2024

Overview of Disposable Gloves

Disposable gloves are designed for single use and are then discarded. They play a vital role in safeguarding your health and the health of those you care for by preventing the spread of germs and infections.

You should wear gloves whenever there's a possibility of coming into contact with bodily fluids such as saliva, blood, urine, or feces. It's also advisable to use a fresh pair of gloves when handling areas around surgical incisions, during bathing assistance, applying medications on the skin, and administering injections.

While gloves offer a protective barrier against germs, they don't shield you from sharp objects. If you’re handling sharp items, like needles, ensure they don’t pierce the glove by handling them with care.

In situations where gloves are unavailable or you choose not to use them, it’s crucial to maintain hand hygiene. Always wash your hands thoroughly after contact with body fluids and have hand sanitizer readily available.

Types of Disposable Gloves

Disposable gloves come in two main types: sterile and non-sterile. Your healthcare provider will inform you if sterile gloves are necessary, along with instructions on how to obtain and use them. Generally, most people do not require sterile gloves, which are individually packaged. Non-sterile gloves are typically dispensed from a box or container.

Gloves are made from various materials, such as latex and vinyl. If you or the person you’re caring for has a latex allergy, be sure to use non-latex gloves like nitrile or vinyl.

How to Put On and Remove Disposable Gloves

To ensure effective use of disposable gloves, they must fit well. A proper fit provides comfort and enhances their protective function. If gloves are too large, they may slip and allow germs to enter; if too small, they can tear and cause discomfort.

  1. Hand Hygiene: Begin by washing your hands with soap and clean, running water. Dry them thoroughly.
  2. Putting on Gloves: Hold a glove with one hand and insert the other hand into the glove. Repeat for the other hand.
  3. Removing Gloves: Be cautious as the glove exteriors may be contaminated. Remove them by grabbing the cuff and peeling them off inside out. Dispose of gloves in a plastic bag and wash your hands afterward.

Using Gloves in Healthcare Settings

Gloves are a form of personal protective equipment (PPE) that act as a barrier between your hands and germs, essential in healthcare environments to prevent infection transmission.

Importance of Wearing Gloves

Wearing gloves is crucial for the protection of both patients and healthcare workers against infections.

When to Wear Gloves

Use gloves whenever you come into contact with blood, bodily fluids, tissues, mucous membranes, or broken skin, regardless of the patient's appearance of health.

Selecting the Right Gloves

Disposable gloves should be available in all areas where patient care occurs. Select gloves that fit well to avoid slippage and ensure comfort.

  • If gloves are too large, they hinder object handling and can let germs inside.
  • Gloves that are too small may tear more easily.
  • Sterile or surgical gloves, free from germs, are needed for certain procedures and come in sizes from 5.5 to 9. Know your size in advance.

For chemical handling, refer to the material safety data sheet for the appropriate glove type.

Avoid oil-based hand creams or lotions unless approved for use with latex gloves. If allergic to latex, use non-latex alternatives and avoid latex-containing products.

Steps for Removing Gloves

To safely remove gloves without contaminating your hands:

  1. Using your left hand, grasp the outside of the right glove at the wrist.
  2. Pull toward the fingertips, turning the glove inside out.
  3. Hold the removed glove in your left hand.
  4. Insert two fingers of the right hand inside the left glove.
  5. Pull towards the fingertips until the glove turns inside out, encasing the right glove.
  6. Dispose of gloves in an approved waste container.

Always use a new pair of gloves for each patient and wash hands between patient interactions to prevent germ transfer.

Why use disposable gloves?

  • Infection control: wearing gloves
  • Patient safety: wearing gloves
  • Personal protective equipment: wearing gloves
  • Nosocomial infection prevention: wearing gloves
  • Hospital-acquired infection prevention: wearing gloves
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