Classification and scope of application of medical gloves

Since the 1980s, with the increasing awareness of blood borne diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis B, the use of medical gloves has attracted much attention. Gloves play a crucial role in protecting patients, caregivers, and infection control. However, if used improperly, gloves can have the opposite effect and become a vector for the spread of pathogens. Therefore, the correct use of gloves is of great significance for protecting patients and nurses.

1) Classify latex gloves, polyethylene gloves, and chloroprene rubber gloves based on the synthesized raw materials. Latex gloves are thin and soft, with a good tactile sensation. However, due to the presence of tiny pores, the permeability of pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria is increased, and it cannot be soaked in ethanol, mineral oil, or stored in high or low temperature environments, otherwise it will increase the permeability of gloves and reduce their protective effect. Polyethylene gloves are made of polyvinyl chloride and have fewer small pores, making it difficult for bacteria and other pathogenic microorganisms to pass through. However, their elasticity and tactile feel are inferior to latex gloves, and they cannot be reused. Neoprene gloves contain less latex and are more resistant to pulling than latex gloves. Latex gloves are prone to allergic reactions, followed by chloroprene gloves, and polyethylene gloves are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

2) Classified by purpose, the first is medical gloves used to prevent medical personnel from being infected, such as those used to come into contact with patients' blood and body fluids, handle dressings and equipment used by patients, scrub the surface of workstations, and hold chemical substances.

3) The scope of application includes: (1) contact or expected contact with infectious substances, such as patient secretions, excreta, bodily fluids, blood, etc; (2) When medical staff have damaged fingers and need to come into contact with infected patients; (3) When medical staff come into contact with open windows or perform invasive aseptic procedures.