A Detailed Classification and Selection Guide for Disposable Medical Gloves: Materials, Uses, and Precautions

 

Disposable medical gloves are core products for medical protection. Their core function is to block the spread of pathogens and ensure the safety of both medical staff and patients. With the growth of medical demand and technological upgrades, the global disposable glove market has been continuously expanding. It is estimated that the market size will reach 107.75 billion yuan by 2030. How to scientifically select and use such products? This article comprehensively analyzes them from multiple dimensions, including materials, functions, and application scenarios.

 

I. Classification by Material: Differences in Performance and Applicable Scenarios

1. Latex Gloves

Latex gloves are made of natural rubber and have excellent elasticity, fit, and tactile sensitivity. They are the first choice for high - precision operations such as surgical procedures and intravenous punctures. However, they have a relatively high allergenicity, and about 2% - 17% of the population may experience allergic reactions. Therefore, they need to be carefully selected.

 

2. Nitrile Gloves

As a substitute for latex gloves, nitrile gloves are made of synthetic rubber. They have outstanding puncture resistance and chemical corrosion resistance, and are suitable for high - risk scenarios such as handling disinfectants and chemotherapy drugs. Their characteristic of being free of latex proteins can meet the needs of allergic people, and they have now become the fastest - growing sub - category.

 

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Gloves

PVC gloves have low costs and good anti - static properties. They are commonly used in non - invasive examinations (such as general physical examinations and dressing changes) and low - risk environments. However, their puncture resistance and sensitivity are relatively weak, so they are not suitable for delicate operations or contact with highly corrosive substances.

 

4. Neoprene Gloves

Combining the flexibility of latex and the chemical resistance of nitrile, neoprene gloves can provide reliable protection against corrosive chemicals. They are suitable for scenarios such as laboratories and pharmaceutical preparation.

 

5. Polyethylene (PE) Gloves

Lightweight and economical, PE gloves are mostly used in non - medical scenarios such as food processing and cleaning. Due to their limited protective performance, they are not recommended for direct contact with patients' body fluids or high - risk medical operations.

 

II. Function Segmentation: Meeting the Needs of Different Medical Scenarios

- Powdered and Powder - Free Gloves: Powdered gloves are added with corn starch to facilitate donning and doffing, but the powder residue may cause allergies or contaminate aseptic environments. Powder - free gloves solve this problem through surface coating treatment and are more suitable for high - standard scenarios such as operating rooms.

- Sterile and Non - Sterile Gloves: Sterile gloves are sterilized with ethylene oxide and are used for invasive operations such as surgical procedures and interventional treatments. Non - sterile gloves are used for routine work such as blood drawing and instrument cleaning, which can reduce cost consumption.

- Chlorinated and Non - Chlorinated Gloves: Chlorination treatment reduces the stickiness of gloves and facilitates quick donning, but it weakens the grip. Non - chlorinated gloves are more suitable for environments that require delicate operations.

 

III. Key Points for Selection and Use

1. Match the Scenario Requirements

For high - risk operations (such as surgeries and nursing of infectious diseases), sterile gloves made of nitrile or neoprene should be selected. For ordinary examinations, PVC or PE gloves can be used to control costs.

 

2. Pay Attention to Allergic Risks

People allergic to latex should prefer nitrile or synthetic material gloves. When using powdered gloves, the environmental sensitivity needs to be evaluated. In high - risk areas such as operating rooms, the use of powder - free products is recommended.

 

3. Size and Comfort

Gloves that are too tight can easily cause fatigue, while those that are too loose can affect the accuracy of operations. It is recommended to choose brands that offer a variety of sizes and actually test the flexibility and tactile feedback.

 

4. Standardize the Use Process

- Wash hands using the seven - step hand - washing method before wearing.

- Check the integrity of the outer packaging and the expiration date.

- When removing the gloves, avoid touching the contaminated surface and turn them inside out before discarding.

- Replace the gloves immediately after single use and never reuse them.

 

As medical standards improve, disposable medical gloves are evolving towards high - protection, low - allergenicity, and degradability. Medical institutions need to establish scientific selection and usage specifications based on the risk level of operations, budget control, and the adaptability of personnel to maximize the protective effectiveness.