Gloves

Overview: Examination gloves form the foundation of modern clinical practice, and offer a simple protective barrier between the examiner and the patient. As latex allergies have recently become a growing concern, a market has developed for exam gloves that address these needs. Besides the typical powdered latex gloves, several other types of gloves exist, including silicone gloves and latex-free gloves, among others.

 

In routine clinical examination, it is usually the non-sterile exam gloves that are used. It is only when performing an invasive procedure that clinicians opt for the sterile examination gloves. These are packaged in such a way as to preserve the glove from contamination prior to contact with the patient. Non-sterile gloves come in boxes, and may be pulled out and used at will.

 

Nitrile gloves are designed for use with the harsh chemicals of a lab or janitorial setting, but may also be used to block UV light in a lab setting or for surgical work. They are more abrasion- and puncture-resistant than PVC/vinyl gloves of comparable thickness, and come powdered or not.

 

Latex gloves were the industry standard up until recently, but improvements in chemical-, abrasion- and puncture-resistance as well as latex sensitivities in a growing clientele are outmoding this type of glove.

 

Most gloves are disposable, and come in boxes containing between 200 and 300 gloves. Gloves that are packaged in this manner are not handed, allowing for ease of use. There are generally between 3 and 5 sizes of glove available depending on the manufacturer and the type of glove.

 

Non-powered gloves are offered for those who are allergic as well as for those who must work in a particle-free environment. The powder is typically added as a friction and moisture reducer, and usually contains vitamin E. Glove types that breathe more readily reduce the need for powder, the nitrile glove being a good example of this.

 

Types: Nitrile, powder-free, latex-free, powdered, sterile, non-sterile, disposable, etc.

 

Prices: Per box, the price typically depends on the type of glove, the glove size, and the glove count per box.

 

Manufacturers: Ansell, Allegro, Keysan, Cole-Parmer, etc.

 

Sources: www.magidglove.com, www.coleparmer.com, etc.