Single-use gloves are disposable barriers intended to prevent cross-contamination between the wearer, the environment, and the object being handled. While gloves form a physical barrier, their effectiveness depends entirely on the preparatory steps taken before they are put on. Following a specific protocol before donning gloves is necessary to ensure the barrier remains intact and does not inadvertently introduce contaminants. These preliminary actions are the first line of defense in any contamination control situation, from food handling to medical procedures.
Achieving Proper Hand Hygiene
The most fundamental step before putting on gloves is achieving proper hand hygiene, as gloves are not a substitute for clean hands. Microorganisms can contaminate the inside of the glove from unwashed hands. These pathogens can then be transferred to the external surface during the donning process or through microscopic defects in the glove material.
Begin by wetting the hands and applying enough soap to create a rich lather. The mechanical action of scrubbing is vital for removing oil and debris, which can harbor microbes. Hands should be scrubbed for a minimum of 20 seconds, ensuring all surfaces are covered, including the back of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails.
After scrubbing, the hands must be rinsed well with fingers pointed downward toward the drain to prevent recontamination. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol can be used as an alternative. Handwashing is always preferred when hands are visibly soiled or if working with specific pathogens like Clostridium difficile spores.
Preparing Your Hands and Wrists
Once the hands are cleaned, they must be completely dried before proceeding to glove use. Any residual moisture creates a damp environment inside the glove, which promotes the rapid growth of bacteria. Wet hands also make the gloves much more difficult to put on, increasing the risk of tearing the material.
All hand and wrist jewelry, including rings, watches, and bracelets, must be removed. Jewelry can interfere with the proper fit of the glove, and the skin beneath a ring often remains contaminated even after a thorough handwashing. Sharp edges or protrusions on jewelry also present a high risk of puncturing or tearing the glove material, compromising the barrier function.
The final physical preparation involves a quick visual inspection of the hands for any breaks in the skin. Any open cuts, abrasions, or rashes should be covered with a clean, dry dressing before the gloves are worn. This prevents pathogens from entering the wearer’s bloodstream and minimizes the risk of the wound contaminating the inside of the glove.
Selecting the Right Glove and Checking its Integrity
The protective performance of the single-use glove begins with selecting the correct material for the intended task. Different materials offer various levels of protection; for example, nitrile gloves provide better chemical resistance than vinyl, while latex offers superior dexterity. The choice also depends on allergy considerations, as latex can cause reactions in some individuals.
Choosing the proper size is equally important to maintain a secure barrier and the wearer’s dexterity. A glove that is too small will be excessively tight, increasing the likelihood of tearing or causing hand fatigue. Conversely, a glove that is too large will wrinkle, reduce tactile sensitivity, and make fine motor tasks difficult.
Before removing a glove from its dispenser, the box or package should be visually inspected for any signs of damage. The gloves should also be checked for their expiration date, as the integrity of the material can degrade over time. Once a glove is removed, a final visual inspection for any holes, tears, or discoloration ensures that a compromised barrier is not used.