Healthcare acquired infections are a big problem in hospitals. These are infections that patients contract while they are in the hospital for other reasons. While some infections are relatively benign, others can be life-threatening. Read on!
Many hospitals have implemented policies and procedures to try to reduce the incidence of infections, with varying degrees of success. One of the most important tools in the fight against infections is nitrile gloves.
What are they:
Nitrile gloves are made from synthetic rubber, and they are latex-free. They are also more resistant to punctures and chemicals than natural rubber gloves. These gloves have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the fact that they do not cause allergic reactions in people who are latex-sensitive.
The types available in the market:
There are two main types of gloves: surgical and examination.
- Surgical gloves are usually thinner than examination gloves and have a textured surface to provide a better grip.
- Examination gloves are usually thicker and have a smooth surface. Both types of gloves come in different sizes to fit different hand shapes and sizes.
How do they work to fight infections:
The gloves are effective at reducing the spread of bacteria and viruses. They create a barrier between the hands of health care workers and their patients, which reduces the likelihood of contact with infectious agents. In addition, they are easy to remove and dispose of, which further reduces the risk of infection transmission.
Why should they be used once?
Since these gloves are made of synthetic rubber that is oil- and chemical-resistant, they are three times more puncture resistant than latex gloves and are often used in the food industry and when cleaning because, they provide a better barrier than latex gloves.
- The gloves should be used once and then thrown away. They can rip easily, so if they are reused, there is a higher risk of them ripping and the user coming into contact with whatever they are handling. Also, they can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- If you have an allergy to latex, you may also be allergic to nitrile. If you have never used these gloves before, it is important to test for allergies by applying a small amount of the glove material to your skin before using them.
- Once you have determined that you are not allergic, you can use gloves as needed. Throw them away after each use to prevent cross-contamination.
The key fact:
These types of gloves are also available in a variety of colors, sizes, and thicknesses to suit different needs. While they are more expensive than latex gloves, these gloves are a great option for those who need a durable, reliable glove.
Conclusion:
The infections are a serious problem, but they can be reduced by using nitrile gloves. Nitrile gloves create a barrier between health care workers and their patients, which reduces the likelihood of infection transmission. In addition, nitrile gloves are easy to remove and dispose of, which further reduces the risk of infection transmission.
