Everything You Wanted to Know About Gloves, But Were Afraid to Ask
Body substance precautions (BSP) were introduced at The Toronto Hospital in 1989. At that time, BSP bulletins described the basic principles. One specific issue which was addressed was when and why to wear gloves. Since that time, the use of unsterile vinyl and latex gloves has increased enormously, along with the respective budgets for these items.
Now however, there is a concern about sensitivities, contact dermatitis and latex allergies which have developed in glove users. Everyone working in a hospital should remember this, and determine when it is necessary to wear gloves and more importantly, when it is not.
Vinyl gloves do offer adequate protection, but they may not fit as well as a latex glove for a procedure such as starting an IV. Gloves do offer protection, and should be worn whenever there is a possibility of contact with blood, body fluids, non-intact skin or mucous membranes. However, sometimes you may notice that elevator buttons are pushed by someone wearing gloves or when food trays are being handed out. Why? Is this really appropriate glove use?
To help staff decide whether gloves should or should not be used, guidelines are listed below. One final reminder is to report any glove sensitivities such as itching or rashes to Occupational Health.
Inappropriate Use of Gloves
* worn for an extended period of time... may irritate your skin
* not changed between patients...may transfer infections
* washed or re-used...they must be changed between patients and cannot be washed
* worn when touching telephones, computer keyboards or elevator button...may contaminate them if the gloves are soiled
* double gloving...not necessary
* excessive use of hand creams and jewelry...may cause irritation under gloves
Appropriate Use of Gloves
* if contact with blood or body fluids is anticipated...they add extra protection, but hands must be washed once they are removed
* when starting an IV or doing a venipuncture...if a needle penetrates the glove, it may strip blood from the shaft before puncturing the skin
* when cleaning up blood spills or contaminated areas...take extra care if there is broken glass
* change gloves if they are leaking or have a tear...wash your hands before putting on a new pair
* sterile gloves are used only during a sterile procedure...unnecessary expense
* wear if necessary to cover cuts or abrasions when giving patient care...additional protection for both patients and staff
* avoid the use of latex gloves if vinyl will do...both are suitable for most patient care activities although latex gives a better fit for starting IVs
* dry your hands thoroughly before putting on gloves...wet hands are more likely to become irritated
* wear a larger-sized glove if possible...it's not as tight and hot
* your own healthy and intact skin is nature's glove and will be protection enough...if it is not irritated.
Remember what your mother always told you when you were a child, "Wash Your Hands." She was right!
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