Saturday, October 6, 2018

Ultimate Guide to Disposable Glove Material Selection

 

Which Disposable Glove Material is Right For You?

Do you have specific jobs that you must complete for work but are worried about contamination or potential injuries?

Let's take a look at the various types of disposable gloves that one might use in a chemical environment, housekeeping, or food industry.

You want to be certain you have the right protection.

Let's look at the different types of disposable gloves available for purchase.

Disposable Glove Material Choices

We are going to go through a few types of gloves and discuss what situations they are best for.

Nitrile

Suited for:

  • Mechanics
  • Medical experts
  • Individuals with allergies to latex
  • Laboratories
  • Contact with food
  • Strength and chemical splash resistance

Why Nitrile Gloves?

Nitrile gloves are a popular choice for many different industries. They are resistant to a variety of chemicals while still having decent ductile properties.

Nitrile is created using a synthetic rubber. This makes them an excellent swap for those who are allergic to latex. It does not contain the same protein that causes the allergic reaction.

What To Contemplate

When working with electrical, nitrile gloves should not be worn. Make sure that the gloves you buy are chemical resistant before working with hazardous chemicals. Permeation rates will vary depending on the glove and compound.

Nitrile rubber has a higher tensile strength and higher resistance to puncture than natural rubber latex. Nitrile rubber is resistant to a wide range of chemicals.

Latex Gloves

Suited for:

  • Medical professionals
  • Those employed in the beauty and Solon business
  • Those looking for better fit and dexterity
  • Biodegradable features for green practices
  • A glove that fits like another skin
  • Those who need an increased level of touch sensitivity.

Why Latex Gloves?

The positives of latex are, it fits like another skin and brings another level of sensitivity to help make sure the task you are working on is of a high standard.

Latex disposable gloves offer a significant amount of flexibility, allowing for a steady hand and fluid movement.

Latex is reliable and durable. It accomplishes an excellent barrier against infectious substances and stops cross contamination.

Some protection from exposure to dangerous chemicals.

What to Consider

Some people suffer from allergies to latex. You want to check this beforehand if you are allergic or your patients/customers.

Latex is a green-friendly option and is made up of biodegradable material. These gloves can be thrown away and not damage the ecology.

Unfortunately, latex isn't as resistant to a lot of chemicals. Its puncture resistance isn't as strong as nitrile gloves.

For example, those in the automotive painting industry should not use latex gloves. Research shows that latex gloves allow permeation of harmful chemicals that can affect your respiratory system.

Before your specific job, sit down and do some research of the various chemicals you might be in contact with. This will help you in the long run when making a decision.

Don't worry, we have mechanics gloves covered, for those of you who are working in the automotive industry!

Vinyl Gloves

Suited for:

  • Low-risk procedures
  • Food prep (except fatty food)
  • Barbers and hairdressers
  • Those seeking a looser fit
  • Smaller budgets
  • Working with non-hazardous materials
  • Those with allergies to latex

Why Vinyl Gloves?

Vinyl gloves are man-make, meaning they are a cheaper option for short and low-risk tasks that still need some sort of protection. Vinyl gloves are frequently used for the food industry.

This will help ensure that there isn't any cross contamination.

Medical level vinyl gloves are helpful for low-risk applications. They are not as strong as latex or nitrile, but they are perfect for hygiene and housekeeping.

What To Contemplate

Seeing as vinyl isn't resistant against a lot of chemicals, this is why they are helpful for low-risk jobs. Allergic irritations don't occur with vinyl gloves because they don't have latex in them.

Use vinyl gloves if you suffer from allergies or skin irritations.

Polyethylene gloves

Suited for:

  • Food prep tasks
  • Jobs that require high levels of sanitation such as when serving food and cleaning tasks
  • When working with non-hazardous materials

Why Polyethylene Gloves?

These gloves are an excellent choice. They are durable, long lasting, and offer a significant barrier to reduce the risks of cross-contamination. These gloves are larger and available for arm gauntlets to even protect your forearms as well.

Embossed and smooth versions are available. The embossed version allows for more grip than the smooth gloves.

These types of gloves are perfect for maintaining good hygiene, and they are helpful for a wide range of industries.

What To Consider

If you have a higher level of touch sensitivity or you need to perform precise tasks that require more top detail then polyethylene gloves aren't your best choice as they can feel loose on your hands

Only use these types of gloves for low-risk jobs. They are not suitable for medical use or contact with chemicals.

Making the Choice for Disposable Glove Material

Here you have an idea of what type of glove you need to choose depending on your job you must complete. Let's look at some things to consider before making the purchase.

Before buying check your hand size - If you have gloves that are too large or too tight, the level of protection won't be the same compared to ones that fit neatly.

Make sure that the gloves have the right level of protection you require.

Depending on what job you are doing, make sure that you are wearing gloves that offer the right amount of protection from chemicals. If you are working with the public, make sure that they are clean and sterile.

Go Purchase the Right Glove

In this guide, we went over the various types of glove materials out there for purchase.

Let's review them quickly.

Nitrile is a popular option for many different industries.

Latex is suited for the beauty industry and the medical profession.

Vinyl gloves are best suited for food prep.

Polyethylene is suited for high levels of sanitation standards.

Make sure you purchase the right glove depending on the task at hand.

Do you need help finding the right glove for your next job? You can contact My Glove Depot for disposable gloves for we are industry professionals when it comes to selecting the right disposable gloves!

 


Ultimate Guide to Disposable Glove Material Selection posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs

Monday, September 3, 2018

Stop Spreading Germs In Your Restaurant with These Food Safety Tips

 

Using Disposable Food Handling Gloves and Other Food Safety Tips

Things like sending your servers home when sick or making sure that you properly wash utensils are second nature in the restaurant industry.

However, there are other, much less obvious food safety tips that you need to consider if you want to keep your staff and customers healthy.

For example, things like your menus, your salt and pepper shakers, and even booster seats for kids have all been found to have just as much -- if not more -- bacteria than your restaurant's restroom.

Furthermore, a recent study also found that those who dine out are twice as likely to get a food-borne illness as those who cook at home.

So, if you want to keep your doors open, you need to read on.

In this post, we'll tell you everything that you need to know about how to stop germs from spreading in your restaurant.

1. Wear Disposable Food Handling Gloves

We know that you already follow restaurant food and safety regulations by instructing your kitchen and waitstaff to wash their hands after using the restroom.

However, a quick rinse with soap and water often isn't enough -- especially in food prep areas.

As your restaurant gets busier, your staff might now always have time to wash their hands between every plate and ingredient.

Food handling gloves can help to serve as a barrier between the germs on a line cook's hands and the food you're serving to customers.

There are lots of different types of glove materials out there, and it's easy to choose the kind that will work best in your restaurant. If you need gloves that can handle exposure to high heat, but still fit tightly and let your cooks chop with ease, go for a latex option.

If your servers have latex allergies, or if you need a durable material that won't restrict movement, opt for nitrile gloves.

Instruct your team to switch out their gloves to a fresh pair after handling raw meat, if they cough or sneeze, or as soon as they notice a rip or tear.

2. Separate Raw and Cooked Foods

In the restaurant world, cross-contamination can happen in an instant.

If you want to limit the potential for food-borne illnesses, then you need to pay close attention to how you store your cooked and raw foods.

You need to make sure that, especially when it comes to a larger refrigerator or storage space, that you completely separate raw and cooked foods. This means no stacking of trays, and no putting raw and cooked foods on the same shelf.

It's also important that you check for leaks -- is the cling wrap from raw food coverings accidentally dripping onto the cooked food below it?

And when it makes its way to the kitchen, are you using separate cutting boards for your raw and cooked foods? What about different knives and other utensils?

If space allows, prepare these foods in completely different stations. Always do unannounced spot-checks in the kitchen to keep staff on their toes.

3. Keep an Eye on Temperature

Of course, you want to make sure that all the food you serve your guests is cooked to perfection.

No one wants to end up with a rare hamburger when they ordered it well-done, just as no one enjoys a piece of rubbery, overcooked chicken.

But temperature regulation is about far more than just taste. It's also one of the most essential food safety tips.

To make sure ground meat is cooked, aim for a temperature of 160 degrees. For eggs and fish, 145 degrees is best. If you're cooking chicken, keep it at 165 degrees.

You'll also need to make sure that food isn't left out for so long that it ends up spoiling.

This means that all of your perishable food should be placed back in the freezer or food storage area after two hours out on the counter. When in doubt, throw it out.

Finally, it goes without saying that, if you're serving raw or potentially undercooked foods in your restaurant (think tartare or shellfish) you'll need to properly warn your clients on the menu.

4. Disinfect Food Prep Areas

We know that you always take the time to wipe down tables in between customers.

But be honest with yourself: when was the last time that you completely cleaned out your freezer? How often do you disinfect the countertops in your kitchen and other food prep areas? And what sort of products are you using to clean and disinfect?

For best results, you should aim to do a weekly purge of old food products from the fridge. At least once a month, do a deep clean.

This means taking everything off the shelves, making sure that any filters have been replaced, and inspecting the fridge to make sure it's still working properly.

Never store food on the floor in a walk-in fridge. In addition to being a potential safety hazard, it also makes it easy for bugs and rodents to crawl into the containers.

Use These Food Safety Tips to Keep Guests Healthy

From always ensuring you cook at the proper temperature to routinely cleaning and inspecting your fridge, follow these food safety tips to keep guests and servers healthy and happy.

Use gloves to create a barrier between bacteria and your food, and make sure you're following restaurant food safety regulations.

Above all, make sure that you've properly educated your employees about the correct hygiene methods and rules they need to follow.

When you're ready to invest in the right tools to prevent cross-contamination and food-borne illnesses from ruining your restaurant's reputation, rely on us.

At My Glove Depot, we offer the gloves that you need to stop the spread of germs in your food prep areas, your fridge, and everywhere else.

 


Stop Spreading Germs In Your Restaurant with These Food Safety Tips posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs

Thursday, August 2, 2018

Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl Gloves: What's Right for You?

 

When it comes to choosing gloves, it can be an overwhelming decision. Afterall, if your profession requires you wear them daily, you'll want the best for your hands.

There are many options for glove material. Do you go with nitrile, latex, or vinyl? Are there even major differences between them?

There are many things to consider, and it's important that your gloves are durable, comfortable, and safe--for the environment, yourself, and anyone you might be around.

In this article, we'll dive into what's the right choice and compare Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl. By the end of this read, you'll be able to select the best glove for your business, your clients, and yourself. Let's get started.

What Are My Options?

The marketplace in the 21st century has something for everyone, which is great if you like options, but also overwhelming when you're trying to find the best of the best.

We found that it's always best to have a lot of options in the back in case someone has an allergy to either kind! Let's dive into the three most popular glove materials on the market today: nitrile, latex, and vinyl.

Pros and Cons: Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl

With any product, there are pros and cons to everything. As you read on, consider which attributes are most important for your place of work.

Nitrile Gloves

The newest option on the market is Nitrile gloves, or also known as Buna-N, Perbunan, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, or NBR, to scientists. Nitrile gloves are a synthetic rubber copolymer that mimics the feel and fit of latex, without using natural resources.

Nitrile Disposable Gloves Pros:

  • Synthetic polymer
  • Protein-free and allergy-free
  • Durable and flexible
  • High resistance to punctures and chemicals
  • Provides added protection against petroleum-based products

Cons:

  • More expensive
  • Not biodegradable

Nitrile Gloves Ideal Uses:

  • Medical industry
  • Janitorial industry
  • Automotive industry
  • Industrial industry

It seems that nitrile gloves have it all, and then you get to the price. Depending on what's important to you, another option could fit your budget better.

Latex Gloves

Latex gloves have been around since in 1894 when William Stewart Halsted, the first surgeon in chief of The Johns Hopkins Hospital, developed them to protect his staff from surgical chemicals. Since then, they are the most popular choice of gloves in the healthcare industry.

Latex Disposable Gloves Pros:

  • All natural trusted material
  • Biodegradable
  • Fits like a second skin
  • Flexible fit
  • Reliable performance: protects against infection and contamination

Cons:

  • Not suitable for people with latex allergies
  • Does not provide protection against petroleum-based products
  • Lower resistance to punctures and chemicals
  • Costs fluctuate based on natural resources

Latex Gloves Ideal Uses:

  • Medical industry
  • Janitorial industry
  • Automotive industry
  • Industrial industry

Latex is a great option for personal use if you know you aren't allergic to latex---yet. As long as you steer clear of petroleum-based products, latex gloves are a great choice.

Vinyl Gloves

One of the first synthetic rubber materials on the market was PVC or vinyl. Vinyl gloves became an alternate option for people with latex allergies in the healthcare and industrial industry. Since then, vinyl gloves have been a quality choice. They provide great protection for a low price and are great in low-risk environments.

Vinyl Disposable Gloves Pros:

  • Synthetic polymer
  • Allergy-free
  • Economical

Cons:

  • Doesn't fit as well as latex or nitrile
  • Susceptible to punctures. Therefore, these gloves are not advised for use in high-infection environments
  • Harmful to the environment if disposed of incorrectly

Vinyl Gloves Ideal Uses:

  • Food preparation
  • Beauty industry
  • Janitorial industry
  • Automotive industry
  • Industrial industry

Now that we've broken down each of the glove materials let's find out which one is best for you.

What Dispoable Glove Material is Best For Me?

When buying gloves there's a lot to consider: client allergies, fit, high/ low-risk jobs, powdered/unpowdered, shelf life, costs, environmental impact. Let's explore what glove choice is best for each scenario.

Best Choice for Allergies

If someone's life is at risk, then there's no better option for gloves than synthetic. Made in a lab, both nitrile and vinyl gloves provide allergy-free glove protection.

About 1 to 6 percent of people in the U.S. have a latex allergy, but the statistic gets scary when you consider that you can develop the allergy at any time. People who work with latex the most are in the healthcare industry. When we look at those numbers, we see that about 8-12 percent of health care workers will get a latex allergy.

Best Choice for Budget

When analyzing the bottom line, vinyl gloves are the most economical option available today. PVC has been around for many years, and costs of production are low.

This glove material is a great choice for every day in low-risk tasks. If you're looking for a cheap, simple barrier between your hands and the environment, vinyl gloves are a great option for you.

Best Choice for Hisk Risk Tasks

If you are working in an infectious environment, you are going to want the strongest, most reliable barrier for your body. The best choices for you are nitrile or latex.

If there's a chance of you encountering petroleum-based products in your line of work, opt for nitrile gloves to be safe. Your health is in your own hands.

Now that we've compared the three most popular glove materials, there's only one question left to ask. Which gloves will you choose?

Which Disposable Gloves Will You Choose?

Congratulations, you are now a glove expert. After pitting nitrile vs latex vs vinyl gloves against each other, you now have everything you need to order the perfect gloves for you and your place of work.

If you still have questions or need help deciding, don't hesitate to contact us at My Glove Depot, for all your glove needs.

 


Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl Gloves: What's Right for You? posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs

Monday, July 2, 2018

What Are Latex Allergy Symptoms And How Do You Stop Them

Up to 6% of the general population and 8 to 12% of healthcare workers have a latex allergy. Other employees who work in an occupation that uses latex gloves such as a salon, food service industry, tattoo parlor, automotive repair facility, and police or fire stations, are also at risk for sensitivities.

You may have an allergy if you are experiencing common latex allergy symptoms. A latex reaction can become life-threatening if left untreated.

Keep reading to learn about latex allergy symptoms, how to treat them, and how to avoid reactions.

Minor Latex Allergy Symptoms

If you have a minor latex allergy or come into minor contact, look out for these reactions.

  • Rash
  • Hives (large bumps on the skin that are itchy)
  • Itching and/or red skin
  • Swelling at the place of contact (usually hands)
  • Stuffy or a runny nose
  • Itchy or watering eyes
  • Sneezing

Skin reactions are less common in today's society, as most health services have switched to non-latex gloves to be on the safe side.

Treatment for Minor Reactions

Try taking an oral antihistamine or lathering the skin with an antihistamine gel or lotion. Calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream may also be effective. Apply the creams every few hours until symptoms subside.

If you are experiencing congestion, take an over-the-counter decongestant or nasal spray.

Natural home remedies can help soothe and heal allergic reactions.

For skin rashes, try soaking in an oatmeal bath. Oatmeal is anti-inflammatory and moisturizing. Be sure to use warm water, as heat can worsen the itch.

Apple cider vinegar is another remedy for a rash. It can pull toxins out of the skin with its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. It is also known to reduce inflammation.

In fact, you can use apple cider vinegar to help relieve all allergy symptoms. Simply drink a tablespoon in a mixture of water or tea each day.

For itch relief, try lavender oil, aloe vera, or cocoa butter.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin allergy that occurs after wearing latex gloves or products. Symptoms will begin 1 to 3 days after using the gloves.

Contact dermatitis will resemble eczema or blisters. They are most often found on the back of the hands and mistaken for poison ivy.

Treatment for Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Remedies for allergic contact dermatitis due to a latex allergy are similar to treatments for minor reactions. Take an over-the-counter or prescribed antihistamine and use hydrocortisone creams on the hands.

For serious cases, your doctor may prescribe a steroid medication or ointment stop the inflammation and spreading of the rash.

You can try using the home remedies mentioned above to soothe the dry skin and inflammation.

Severe Latex Allergy Symptoms

Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Watch for these reactions within minutes of exposure to latex:

  • Asthma-like symptoms such as trouble breathing, wheezing, and chest tightness
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Feeling dizzy and/or weak
  • Drop in blood pressure
  • Chest pain

If you experience any of the symptoms above, your allergy is likely severe and you should see a doctor right away.

Treatment for severe latex reactions

Use an epinephrine pen if you have one. Next, call 911, even if the auto-injection helps. The medical team will likely give you a steroid injection and treat your symptoms accordingly.

If you know you have an allergy, order and wear a medical alert identification bracelet or necklace. This can save your life if you have a severe reaction in the future, as it informs medical personnel how to best treat you.

Take Precautions

If you have a latex allergy, you should avoid places and products that may contain latex. Call your physician, clinic, or hospital before arrival to make sure they do not use latex gloves.

Always document your allergy in your medical paperwork, too.

There are other times besides rubber gloves that may contain latex. You should avoid balloons, condoms, and any products made of natural rubber.

Always make sure to wash your produce, too, (even if it's canned or frozen) as many items are prepared with latex gloves.

Lastly, carry allergy medicine including antihistamine and an Epi-pen (if necessary) at all times in case of contact. There are more than 40,000 products that contain latex. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Cross-Reactive Foods

Many people who have latex allergies also have food allergies or sensitivities. This is because latex is a natural rubber made from the sap of the Hevea brasiliensis tree.

Some fruits, vegetables, and nuts are termed "cross-reactive foods" because they have proteins associated with natural latex. These, as well as lactiferous plants, can cause concern for people who are allergic to latex.

The most likely foods to cause allergic reactions include banana, chestnut, kiwi, and avocado.

If your allergy is severe, you should also avoid apples, papaya, potatoes, celery, carrots, tomato, and melons. You can find a full list of latex associated foods on the American Latex Allergy Association website.

Have no Fear, Latex-Free Gloves are Here

Don't let your latex allergy symptoms get in the way of your profession or hobbies. Today, there are many alternatives to traditional latex gloves on the market that work just as well.

At My Glove Depot, we offer latex-free vinyl gloves as well as synthetic disposable gloves. Our synthetic gloves are available in a variety of materials including nitrile and chloroprene. Plus, all our glove options come in many different colors so you don't have to give up the personality.

Order a case today and get another for half the price!

If you have questions regarding our products, please contact us toll-free.


What Are Latex Allergy Symptoms And How Do You Stop Them posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs

Saturday, May 5, 2018

How to Properly Use Food Handling Gloves

 

Have you ever walked into a restaurant only to see the people behind the counter handling your food weren't wearing gloves? It usually makes you pretty suspicious about the quality and safety of the food, right?

It's a reasonable suspicion to have. The CDC estimates that around 48 million people in the U.S. get food poisoning every year. A large portion of those illnesses come a lack of care on the part of the food handler. When the numbers are that high, you should be taking every precaution.

If you own a restaurant, and you see your employees handling food without gloves it's especially frustrating. Not only is it unsanitary, but it also creates negative advertising. If a customer sees an employee cutting up chicken or mixing salad greens, they are going to walk right out the door.

That's why it's so important to use food handling gloves. Below, we'll explain how to utilize them properly to maximize food safety.

How to Use Food Handling Gloves

You'd think slapping on some latex gloves would be simple enough, but the Department of Health in each state has various guidelines on best practices to employ when using food handling gloves. Each state has their own idiosyncrasies, but we'll provide some general tips below.

Wash Your Hands First

Gloves are useless if you've just been fishing through cow manure. The point of food handling gloves is to create a bacteria-proof barrier between your hands and the food. The gloves become less effective if the hands wearing them are filthy. This could lead to bacteria on your hands crawling out of your gloves and onto the food.

Wash your hands first, and remember to get under your nails!

Use Snug-Fitting Gloves

This issue can lead to indirect food safety issues. Wearing gloves that are too big or too small can make it harder to do your job. The glove could slip off in the food, leading to contamination, for example. Or you could be slicing meat with gloves that are too large, have the knife slip from your hands and slice open one of your fingers. Then, you're bleeding all over the meat, wasting money and making customers sick. It's no good.

Change Gloves When You Change Stations

Aside from keeping food away from germs on your own hands, food handling gloves also serve to keep bacteria on other foods away from the rest of the kitchen. So when you move from one workstation to the next, make sure to swap out gloves.

For example, if you're working in front of the range, and you're rubbing down raw meat with a spice rub, you need to change your gloves before you start tossing salads. Otherwise, you'll just get all the bacteria, like e. Coli and other germs, on the lettuce. And who wants e. Coli in their lettuce!

Do Not Reuse Gloves

If you take off your gloves to go to the bathroom or go on lunch break, the chances of contamination are high if you reuse them. This is because there is almost nowhere you could place them that wouldn't expose them to unwanted bacteria.

Even if you're returning to the same station, you should change them. Just put a new pair on, they'll feel nicer anyway.

Avoid Latex

Latex used to be the go-to when it came to food handling gloves. But these days, a lot of people are developing allergies to latex. Your best bet then is to buy gloves made with synthetic material or vinyl.

An added benefit of this is that latex tends to melt and shrink around a heat source. If you're working by an open fire all day, latex has the potential to give you some pretty bad burns if you're not careful. The last thing you want is a coating of hot melted plastic around your hands.

Wash Your Hands When You're Done

Spend a day sweating into a pair of rubber gloves and you've some pretty moist conditions on your hands. This moisture creates an environment in which bacteria can grow and prosper, which is the last thing we want.

So when you're done with your shift, bookend your day by giving your hands another wash.

Cover Cuts & Wounds Twice Over

If you're coming to work with a gnarly paper-cut or you had a tip lopped off throwing axes, you have to take extra precautions.

In cases like these, make sure that before you put your gloves on, you've got your wound properly cleaned, dressed, and wrapped in a bandage. Blood-borne illnesses can be brutal, so we have to be doubly safe here.

A Disclaimer

Gloves are not the end-all-be-all of food safety. They're not some magical safeguard against germs. They're but one tool in your food safety arsenal.

You also have to make sure that the food you're serving is being stored and cooked properly. A general rule for the Department of Health in many states is that when food is refrigerated it has to stay below 41 degrees and when it is cooked it has to be cooked to a temperature above 140 degrees. The temperatures between these two extremes promote the growth of bacteria.

Of course, there are foods like steaks that get cooked below this temperature, or not at all in the case of sushi. That is why many restaurants are required to have warnings on their menus if they serve raw meat or fish.

Thumbs-Up For Food Safety

With this information in tow, you're reading to take on that kitchen and keep your food in pristine condition. If you're an employer and need to stock up on quality gloves, check out our supply of food handling gloves.

We can take care of all of your glove-based needs at affordable prices!

 


How to Properly Use Food Handling Gloves posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs

Saturday, April 7, 2018

6 Ways Hospital Gloves Can Keep You From Infection

 

Hospital gloves represent cleanliness and order in a place where bodily fluids and microscopic bacteria run rampant. We know that wearing gloves keeps both medical staff and patients safe from incoming infection--and provides the hygiene needed to assure patients they are getting the best care.

From guarding against bloodborne pathogens to protecting from chemical burns, hospital gloves go a long way regarding fighting infection and keeping a clean environment. Here are six ways they can protect you when going under the knife.

1. Washing Hands Isn't Enough

Hand washing does do a lot to protect users from pathogens. So, by no means are we saying that you shouldn't bother washing your hands, doctor or not. According to the CDC, there have been some hospital-based studies showing that failing to wash one's hands was linked to the spread of infection within a healthcare setting.

And, this inattention has been the basis for several outbreaks. Studies have also shown that hand hygiene vigilance has helped cut down on the number of infections transmitted to patients during hospital stays.

So, with that in mind, healthcare professionals do spend a lot of time washing their hands. However, that doesn't mean they are 100 percent sterile. Adding sterile gloves to the mix provides patients with a layer of protection from bacteria and viruses that may have been missed during the washing process.

2. Gloves Are a Barrier Against Bodily Fluids

One of the main dangers of first aid or medicine is bodily fluids. Blood, vomit, urine, and feces, all pose the risk of cross-contamination. Especially if the person has an open wound.

We've all been taught from very early on that blood, and other fluids must be handled with the utmost protection. Gloves work to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B and C, HIV, and a whole host of diseases while treating patients.

Skin, on its own, does provide some protection against exposure to infection or disease, but our natural defenses may not be enough. In the case of HIV, where the patient has a weakened immune system, gloves protect the transmission of any pathogens from the worker to the patient receiving care.

3. Proper Fitting Gloves--A Second Layer of Protective Skin

To do their job, gloves need to fit properly. Too tight, and mobility is limited, and the gloves could tear during use. Too loose, and the gloves will do a poor job keeping out potential pathogens.

When work gloves don't fit properly, they don't allow for the control and protection to perform the tasks at hand. Doctors and nurses rely on their sense of touch for so many parts of their job, and gloves that don't fit have a negative impact on their ability to treat patients.

Poor fit lessens dexterity, causes hands to sweat, or get in the way. It's super important that whoever is responsible for ordering supplies measures employees' hands whenever hospital gloves need to be replaced. Even if this means ordering multiple sizes, you just can't cut corners when it comes to safety.

4. Gloves Also Provide a Layer of Protection Against Needles and Other Sharp Objects

Hospital workers, as well as those in other fields like the funeral business, law enforcement, and trash collection all risk coming into contact with needles or other hazardous equipment.

Gloves, while not a perfect piece of PPE (personal protective equipment), do help protect against things like broken glass, scalpels, and phlebotomy devices, broken glass--all of which can cause injury and spread blood-borne infections.

Some providers wear two sets of gloves, while others opt for a single pair of gloves designed to be needle-prick resistant. Nitrile gloves with added texture can go along way in keeping medical pros safe from injury and cross-contamination.

5. Gloves Protect Against Hazardous Chemicals

Another critical use of hospital gloves? Protecting against chemicals. While most of the uses for gloves in the healthcare space center around their use as a protection against the spread of disease, gloves play an essential role in protecting their users from the chemicals used in radiation treatment, chemotherapy and more.

Chemicals, like certain drugs or lab materials, used in a healthcare setting can be absorbed by the skin, resulting in unwanted side effects on the part of the medical staff.

6. Nitrile Gloves--Ideal for Reducing Instances of Latex Allergies

While latex allergies are generally not fatal, why use gloves that have the potential of a negative reaction?

Latex allergies tend to be more common in people with regular exposure to the allergen--so doctors, nurses, and medical aides could potentially develop an allergy with repeated use.

Nitrile gloves are more the norm these days. For one, they're made from a synthetic rubber--reducing the risk of an allergic reaction with use. The latex-free gloves are also more puncture resistant than their natural counterparts, protect the hands from pathogens, chemicals, pricks, and cuts.

Shop My Glove Depot for All Your Hospital Glove Needs

At My Glove Depot, we know how important hospital gloves are for ensuring the safety of patients and medical professionals alike. We offer a range of gloves from textured nitrile and traditional latex, to the less-common vinyl.

We've got gloves in all sizes, for all uses--our goal is to keep your hands safe no matter what you've got going on in the workplace.

Our gloves are sold by the case, which allows us to pass along the savings to you. Right now, you can buy one case, and get the second for half price. We know you'll be using a lot of gloves, after all.


6 Ways Hospital Gloves Can Keep You From Infection posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs

Wednesday, April 4, 2018

6 Ways Hopsital Gloves Can Keep You From Infection

Hospital gloves represent cleanliness and order in a place where bodily fluids and microscopic bacteria run rampant. We know that wearing gloves keeps both medical staff and patients safe from incoming infection--and provides the hygiene needed to assure patients they are getting the best care.

From guarding against bloodborne pathogens to protecting from chemical burns, hospital gloves go a long way regarding fighting infection and keeping a clean environment. Here are six ways they can protect you when going under the knife.

1. Washing Hands Isn't Enough

Hand washing does do a lot to protect users from pathogens. So, by no means are we saying that you shouldn't bother washing your hands, doctor or not. According to the CDC, there have been some hospital-based studies showing that failing to wash one's hands was linked to the spread of infection within a healthcare setting.

And, this inattention has been the basis for several outbreaks. Studies have also shown that hand hygiene vigilance has helped cut down on the number of infections transmitted to patients during hospital stays.

So, with that in mind, healthcare professionals do spend a lot of time washing their hands. However, that doesn't mean they are 100 percent sterile. Adding sterile gloves to the mix provides patients with a layer of protection from bacteria and viruses that may have been missed during the washing process.

2. Gloves Are a Barrier Against Bodily Fluids

One of the main dangers of first aid or medicine is bodily fluids. Blood, vomit, urine, and feces, all pose the risk of cross-contamination. Especially if the person has an open wound.

We've all been taught from very early on that blood, and other fluids must be handled with the utmost protection. Gloves work to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B and C, HIV, and a whole host of diseases while treating patients.

Skin, on its own, does provide some protection against exposure to infection or disease, but our natural defenses may not be enough. In the case of HIV, where the patient has a weakened immune system, gloves protect the transmission of any pathogens from the worker to the patient receiving care.

3. Proper Fitting Gloves--A Second Layer of Protective Skin

To do their job, gloves need to fit properly. Too tight, and mobility is limited, and the gloves could tear during use. Too loose, and the gloves will do a poor job keeping out potential pathogens.

When work gloves don't fit properly, they don't allow for the control and protection to perform the tasks at hand. Doctors and nurses rely on their sense of touch for so many parts of their job, and gloves that don't fit have a negative impact on their ability to treat patients.

Poor fit lessens dexterity, causes hands to sweat, or get in the way. It's super important that whoever is responsible for ordering supplies measures employees' hands whenever hospital gloves need to be replaced. Even if this means ordering multiple sizes, you just can't cut corners when it comes to safety.

4. Gloves Also Provide a Layer of Protection Against Needles and Other Sharp Objects

Hospital workers, as well as those in other fields like the funeral business, law enforcement, and trash collection all risk coming into contact with needles or other hazardous equipment.

Gloves, while not a perfect piece of PPE (personal protective equipment), do help protect against things like broken glass, scalpels, and phlebotomy devices, broken glass--all of which can cause injury and spread blood-borne infections.

Some providers wear two sets of gloves, while others opt for a single pair of gloves designed to be needle-prick resistant. Nitrile gloves with added texture can go along way in keeping medical pros safe from injury and cross-contamination.

5. Gloves Protect Against Hazardous Chemicals

Another critical use of hospital gloves? Protecting against chemicals. While most of the uses for gloves in the healthcare space center around their use as a protection against the spread of disease, gloves play an essential role in protecting their users from the chemicals used in radiation treatment, chemotherapy and more.

Chemicals, like certain drugs or lab materials, used in a healthcare setting can be absorbed by the skin, resulting in unwanted side effects on the part of the medical staff.

6. Nitrile Gloves--Ideal for Reducing Instances of Latex Allergies

While latex allergies are generally not fatal, why use gloves that have the potential of a negative reaction?

Latex allergies tend to be more common in people with regular exposure to the allergen--so doctors, nurses, and medical aides could potentially develop an allergy with repeated use.

Nitrile gloves are more the norm these days. For one, they're made from a synthetic rubber--reducing the risk of an allergic reaction with use. The latex-free gloves are also more puncture resistant than their natural counterparts, protect the hands from pathogens, chemicals, pricks, and cuts.

Shop My Glove Depot for All Your Hospital Glove Needs

At My Glove Depot, we know how important hospital gloves are for ensuring the safety of patients and medical professionals alike. We offer a range of gloves from textured nitrile and traditional latex, to the less-common vinyl.

We've got gloves in all sizes, for all uses--our goal is to keep your hands safe no matter what you've got going on in the workplace.

Our gloves are sold by the case, which allows us to pass along the savings to you. Right now, you can buy one case, and get the second for half price. We know you'll be using a lot of gloves, after all.


6 Ways Hopsital Gloves Can Keep You From Infection posted first on https://myglovedepot.com/blogs