Have you ever wondered what it means when we say a pair of gloves is “medical-grade,” and what sets one pair of medical gloves apart from the rest? The world of healthcare professionals can be a bit of a mystery when it comes to the protective gear they use to safeguard against infections. But when lives are on the line, the importance of having the right gloves cannot be overstated.
So, let’s break it down.
What Are Medical Grade Gloves?
Medical-grade examination gloves, also known as exam-grade gloves, were originally for non-surgical procedures. Over time, various other types of gloves have come into being for specific healthcare applications. The term “medical gloves” is a bit broad, as it could technically refer to exam gloves, surgical gloves, or chemotherapy gloves.
However, other glove types are typically put out there based on specific functions. In general, when you come across “medical gloves” or “medical-grade gloves” in listings, you’re most likely looking at exam gloves. These disposable gloves protect against infectious materials, chemical irritants, and other potential hazards that you might face in everyday medical care tasks like patient examinations, injections, first aid, checking vital signs, medication dispensing, changing bandages, and inserting/removing IVs.
Who Uses Medical Grade Gloves?
Medical gloves are an essential part of the toolkit for healthcare professionals who need to protect themselves from potential biohazards and skin irritants while also minimizing the risk of cross-contamination between patients. Moreover, these disposable gloves are ideal for this purpose because they can quickly change after each procedure.
In addition to doctors and nurses, a wide range of professionals rely on medical gloves in their work, including dentists, dental hygienists, veterinarians, janitorial staff, hospice or in-home caregivers, tattoo artists, housekeepers, childcare providers, aestheticians, cosmetologists, and more. Anyone who comes into direct contact with blood pathogens or bodily fluids while caring for people or animals should wear protective gloves. Exam-grade gloves are a necessity in settings with a high risk of potential exposure due to their low defect rate. Additionally, effectively reduces the chances of infection with blood-borne pathogens.
What to Look for in Medical Exam Gloves
When you’re shopping for disposable gloves for medical purposes, here are some key factors to consider:
Thickness
Glove thickness is usually measurable in mils, where one mil is one-thousandth of an inch. Thicker medical gloves tend to offer better resistance to tears and punctures. Therefore, as well as greater impermeability to potentially hazardous fluids. Thinner gloves are more flexible and sensitive.
Grip
Nobody wants to drop delicate instruments during a medical procedure, so it’s important to consider the grip of your gloves. Vinyl gloves tend to have the least grip, while latex gloves offer the most. Nitrile gloves often have textured fingertips, providing a grip similar to latex.
Certifications
Some gloves are tested and certified for specific uses. When purchasing gloves for highly specialized tasks, it’s a good idea to review the ratings and specifications. For instance, gloves certified for handling both fentanyl and chemotherapy drugs are suitable for certain high-risk scenarios.
Color
The color of your disposable gloves may seem like a superficial choice, but it can make a practical difference. Many professionals in medical settings prefer blue gloves because they tend to make bloodstains look less alarming. The bright blue color also stands out against various skin tones. Hence, this makes it easier to spot any rips or tears in the gloves.
Make Your Way to A2 Sustainable for Medical Grade Examination Gloves
After reading this blog, we are sure you know everything about medical-grade examination gloves now. Our medical-grade examination gloves are among the toughest out there. At A2 Sustainable, we carry a wide selection of gloves and masks of your liking. Get yours now!
About Us
A2 Sustainable Supplies is a minority-owned business focused on keeping life sustainable by providing goods and services to improve the living environment. Our list of medical and non-medical products is extensive and our ability to provide the products at a reasonable and competitive price is key.ttis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
