The proper use of disposable gloves is a highly structured process designed to protect the wearer from hazardous substances and prevent the transfer of contaminants to surfaces, other people, or materials. Gloves function as a disposable barrier, but this protection is only achieved when they are correctly selected, put on, worn, and removed. Using gloves incorrectly can inadvertently increase the risk of spreading infectious agents or chemicals, which is why following a precise protocol is so important. This process, from selection to disposal, ensures the glove’s barrier integrity is maintained and that self-contamination is avoided.
Matching Glove Type to Task
Selecting the correct glove material is the first step in ensuring proper protection for any task. Different glove compositions offer varying degrees of resistance to chemicals, punctures, and tears. The three most common disposable materials are nitrile, latex, and vinyl, each suited for distinct applications.
Nitrile gloves, made from a synthetic rubber, offer superior chemical resistance and high puncture durability, making them a preference for laboratory work or handling harsh cleaning agents. They are also latex-free, making them a suitable choice if the wearer or the person being served has a natural rubber latex allergy.
Latex gloves, derived from natural rubber, offer excellent tactile sensitivity and a comfortable fit, which is beneficial for procedures requiring precision. However, their use must be avoided if latex allergies are a concern, as they can trigger severe reactions. Vinyl gloves, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are generally the most affordable option, but they are less durable and offer a lower level of chemical resistance. These are reserved for low-risk, short-duration tasks like general food preparation or light cleaning.
Preparing Hands and Donning Gloves
The process of wearing gloves must begin with hygiene to prevent contamination of the glove’s inner surface. Prior to donning a new pair of gloves, a thorough hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub must be performed. This is necessary because microorganisms may be present on the hands that could multiply inside the glove’s warm, moist environment.
Once the hands have been cleaned, they must be allowed to dry completely before the gloves are put on, as damp hands can make donning difficult and increase the risk of glove tearing. When handling the new gloves, only touch the cuff or the wrist area to avoid contaminating the surfaces that will come into contact with the task materials. The glove should be gently pulled over the hand, ensuring a snug fit that covers the wrist and does not leave any exposed skin between the glove and the sleeve. Choosing the correct size is also important, as gloves that are too large compromise dexterity, and those that are too small are more likely to tear during the task.
Preventing Contamination While Wearing Gloves
While wearing gloves, protocols must be followed to ensure the barrier remains effective and prevent cross-contamination. Since gloves can develop microscopic defects or punctures during use, they do not offer complete protection and are not a substitute for hand washing. Gloves should be changed immediately if they become visibly soiled, torn, or punctured, as even small breaches can allow pathogens to pass through.
Gloves must be changed when moving from a contaminated area to a clean one, or when switching between different tasks or surfaces. For instance, in a food-service setting, gloves used to handle raw meat must be immediately replaced before touching ready-to-eat foods. A common source of error is touching personal items, such as a phone or one’s face, while wearing soiled gloves, which instantly transfers contaminants. The duration of wear should also be limited; prolonged use can lead to the multiplication of microorganisms that may contaminate the hands upon removal.
Proper Technique for Removal and Disposal
The removal, or doffing, of contaminated gloves is the most important step for protecting the wearer from self-contamination. The process must follow a specific “glove-to-glove, skin-to-skin” technique to ensure the contaminated outer surface never touches the bare skin of the hand. The first step involves grasping the outside of one glove near the cuff with the opposite gloved hand.
This glove is then peeled off, turning it inside out as it is removed, and is held in the palm of the remaining gloved hand. The next step requires sliding the fingers of the ungloved hand under the cuff of the second glove, avoiding contact with the outside contaminated surface. This second glove is then peeled off, also turning it inside out, effectively creating a pouch that contains the first glove and all contaminants. The compact bundle of used gloves should be immediately disposed of in the designated receptacle. The final step is performing thorough hand hygiene using soap and water or an alcohol-based rub to mitigate any remaining risk of contamination.