How to Pick the Right Glove

Choosing the right glove for the right situation With the heightened awareness of latex-allergy issues, many types of medical gloves are available to the end user. Each of them offers unique advantages, but at the same time, each of them comes with properties unique to the gloving materials. No single glove provides the “perfect” solution for all applications, and it is nearly impossible for a hospital to standardize on a single type of glove material without encountering difficulties.

• Latex: Has long been the benchmark standard for fit, feel, comfort, strength and barrier protection. Available as an examination and sterile surgical style glove.

• Nitrile: Has become more popular in recent years because it offers excellent tear and chemical resistance, although it costs more than other glove materials. Available as an examination style glove—sterile and non-sterile.

• Neoprene: Has been a popular latex alternative in the OR and more recently as an examination style glove. It is one of the most “latex-like” synthetic glove films. It offers superior comfort but is more expensive than latex. Available as an examination and sterile surgical style glove.

• Vinyl: While an economical alternative to latex, is associated with reduced barrier protection due to its susceptibility to tears, breakage and pinholes. Available only as an examination style glove.

• Polyisoprene: Is the new alternative to latex. It has a fit and feel that is very close to latex. It may be associated with reduced barrier protection. Available only as a sterile surgical style glove.

Exam Glove Use

Risk Criteria Example Glove Selection—Non-Sterile Low Risk • No blood contact • No body fluid contact • Intact skin • Low level of glove stress • Food handling • Dispensing medications • Patient transport • Non-invasive physical exams • Vinyl exam or • Latex exam glove Medium Risk • Blood contact • Body fluid contact • Prodecures that stress   the glove • Invasive procedures • Incontinent care • Wound care • Rectal exams • Ostomy care • Staple removal • IV insertion, injections • Isolation precautions • Latex exam glove or • Nitrile exam glove or • Neoprene exam glove High Risk • High risk of infection of HIV,   HBV, HCV • Chemotherapy administration • High risk of blood and bone   fragments • Handling chemotherapy agents • Emergency department • ICU • Latex exam glove or • Nitrile exam glove or • Neoprene exam glove

Glove Selection Chart

Click on the chart below for full view