When it comes to medical gloves, there is more to them than meets the eye. From types of gloves to their medical uses and beyond, understanding everything about them is essential for doctors and nurses who rely on them in their profession.
The medical gloves online in Australia industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. In Australia, there has been a growing demand for medical gloves from doctors and patients. This is due to several factors, including an ageing population, increasing awareness about preventative health care, and an increasing number of people with chronic conditions such as diabetes.
This article seeks to explain everything you need to know about medical gloves: from different types of gloves and the material they are made of to the regulations that govern their use and why they are so crucial for healthcare professionals. Read on to find out more!
What are medical gloves?
Medical gloves online in Australia protect the wearer’s hands from contact with blood, body fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. They also help keep hands clean and reduce the spread of bacteria.
How are medical gloves made?
Medical gloves are natural rubber latex derived from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree sap. The latex is mixed with chemicals to create a dough-like material, which is then shaped using moulds. Once the gloves have cooled and hardened, they are ready to be used.
What are the different types of medical gloves?
There are many different types of medical gloves available on the market today. From latex to nitrile, there is a glove material suitable for every medical application.
Latex gloves are made from natural rubber and provide an excellent fit and feel. They are often used when dexterity and sensitivity are required, such as when performing an injection or taking a blood sample. However, some people are allergic to latex, so alternative materials must be used.
Nitrile gloves are made from synthetic rubber and provide good resistance to punctures and tearing. They are commonly used in situations where there is a risk of exposure to blood or other bodily fluids, such as during surgery.
Vinyl gloves are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and offer a cost-effective alternative to latex and nitrile gloves. They are less elastic than latex gloves, so they may not provide the exact fit and feel. However, they are suitable for use in low-risk situations, such as when handling non-hazardous materials.
Medical gloves are essential in protecting patients and healthcare workers from infection. Choosing the correct type of glove for each situation is crucial to minimise the risk of cross-contamination.
When should you wear medical gloves?
There are a few critical times when you should be wearing medical gloves:
- When you’re cleaning up blood or other bodily fluids – this includes vomit, urine, and faeces.
- When handling any kind of wound – whether a minor cut or a major surgery.
- When you’re in contact with any bodily fluid – even if you’re not directly cleaning it up. This includes saliva and sweat.
- When you’re in contact with any open wound – even if it’s not your own.
How to properly remove medical gloves
If you’ve ever worked in a hospital or doctor’s office, you know that one of the most important things to do is to remove your medical gloves. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by washing your hands with soap and water.
- Next, put your gloved hand over the other ungloved hand and peel the glove off from the inside out.
- Once the first glove is off, dispose of it properly.
- Finally, rewash your hands with soap and water.
Following these simple steps can help ensure you don’t spread harmful bacteria or viruses.
