Wearing gloves has become a standard practice in the medical industry. Not only do they protect healthcare workers and patients from infections, but they also have several other benefits that are often overlooked. In this article, you will explore the various types of gloves and the many benefits of wearing this personal protective equipment (PPE) in the medical industry.
Before knowing the benefits, you should know the various types used in the medical industry. Here are some of the common types.
- Protective gear such as examination gloves are made from various materials such as latex, nitrile, or vinyl and are used for routine examinations and procedures.
- Surgical gloves are sterile and made from higher-quality material to ensure higher protection during surgical procedures.
- Chemotherapy gloves are specially designed to protect healthcare workers from exposure to chemotherapy drugs, which can be hazardous to their health.
- Radiation gloves are used to protect healthcare workers from exposure to radiation during specific medical procedures.
- Sterile gloves are used for procedures that require a higher level of sterility, such as surgeries and invasive procedures.
Protection against Infections:
One of the most important benefits is the protection they provide against infections. Healthcare workers deal with patients with various infectious diseases, and gloves are a crucial barrier to preventing the spread of these diseases. They protect the wearer’s hands from exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and other infectious materials that may carry harmful pathogens.
Preventing Cross-Contamination:
Wearing this PPE also helps prevent cross-contamination between patients. Cross-contamination occurs when bacteria, viruses, or other harmful microorganisms are transferred from one person to another. When healthcare workers change gloves between patients, they prevent the spread of infections and diseases.
Improved Patient Safety:
This protective gear also improves patient safety by reducing the risk of accidental injuries during medical procedures. They provide a protective layer between the patient’s skin and any medical equipment that may cause harm. By wearing it, healthcare workers can prevent accidental cuts, scrapes, or other injuries that may occur during medical procedures.
Better Hand Hygiene:
Wearing this protective gear also promotes better hand hygiene practices among healthcare workers. When you use this PPE properly, it can prevent the spread of germs and bacteria that may be present on the skin. It is vital to use suitable gloves to avoid any issues.
For instance, you should only wear examination gloves for medical procedures, examinations, and other applications where there is a risk of contact with bodily fluids, infectious agents, or other hazardous substances. Moreover, regularly changing gloves between patients or after handling contaminated materials helps maintain good hand hygiene practices and reduces the risk of infections.
Increased Comfort and Flexibility:
They also provide healthcare workers with increased comfort and flexibility during medical procedures. They protect the skin from harsh chemicals and irritants, allowing healthcare workers to work comfortably without worrying about skin irritation or discomfort.
Improved hygiene
Wearing them helps to maintain a high level of hygiene in medical settings. The PPE acts as a protective barrier between the healthcare worker’s hands and patients, preventing cross-contamination and spreading infections. Moreover, healthcare workers who wear this gear are less likely to experience needle stick injuries, which can transmit blood-borne pathogens such as HIV and hepatitis.
Cost-effective
Gloves are a cost-effective way to prevent the spreading of infections and diseases in healthcare settings. They are relatively inexpensive compared to treating infections resulting from inadequate hand hygiene.
Compliance with regulations
Wearing gloves is often a regulatory requirement in medical settings. Healthcare workers can help maintain a safe and healthy environment for themselves and their patients by ensuring compliance with these regulations.
Wrapping up
The benefits of wearing PPE in the medical industry cannot be overstated. They protect healthcare workers and patients from infections, improve patient safety, promote better hand hygiene practices, and provide increased comfort and flexibility during medical procedures. By wearing gloves, healthcare workers can work with greater confidence and ensure that the highest standards of safety and hygiene are maintained in the medical industry.
