Name of the Procedure:

Gloves, sterile, per pair

Summary

Sterile gloves are used as a protective measure to prevent contamination and maintain a safe and hygienic environment during medical procedures. They are typically worn by healthcare professionals to protect both the patient and the provider from the transmission of infectious agents.

Purpose

Sterile gloves are essential in medical settings to:

• Protect patients from infections transmitted by healthcare workers.
• Protect healthcare workers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other contaminants.

Indications

Sterile gloves are indicated for:

• Surgical procedures.
• Invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
• Any situation requiring strict aseptic technique to prevent contamination.

Preparation

Before using sterile gloves, healthcare professionals should:

• Wash their hands thoroughly.
• Ensure the gloves' package is not damaged or expired.
• Utilize the proper technique to don the gloves without compromising their sterility.

Procedure Description

1. Hand Hygiene: Perform thorough handwashing with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
2. Package Check: Inspect the sterile glove package for any damage or expiration date.
3. Opening the Package: Carefully open the glove package to maintain a sterile field.
4. Donning Gloves: Follow the sterile technique to put on the gloves without touching the outer surface with bare skin.
5. Use: Proceed with the medical procedure, ensuring the gloves remain intact and uncontaminated throughout.

Duration

The duration depends on the length of the medical procedure during which the gloves are worn. Typically, donning the gloves takes a few minutes.

Setting

Sterile gloves are used in various medical settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Surgical centers
• Emergency units

Personnel

The primary users of sterile gloves are:

• Surgeons
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologists
• Any healthcare worker performing aseptic procedures

Risks and Complications

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have latex allergies; alternatives like nitrile or vinyl gloves can be used.
• Glove Tears: Can compromise sterility and protection; proper size and careful donning are essential.
• Contamination: Improper technique can lead to contamination; training and adherence to protocols minimize this risk.

Benefits

• Infection Control: Significantly reduces the risk of infections.
• Protection: Ensures safety for both patients and healthcare providers.
• Confidence: Provides peace of mind knowing there are measures to prevent contamination.

Recovery

• No recovery period is necessary for wearing sterile gloves.
• Post-use, gloves should be carefully removed and disposed of as medical waste.
• Hand hygiene should again be performed after glove removal.

Alternatives

• Use of non-sterile gloves for non-critical procedures.
• Employing other sterilization and hygiene methods if gloves are not appropriate.
• Pros: Gloves are highly effective and easy to use.
• Cons: Gloves can cause allergic reactions and are single-use, contributing to medical waste.

Patient Experience

• Patients generally do not interact with or feel the gloves, apart from appreciating the hygiene measures taken by the healthcare providers.
• Healthcare professionals need to be trained in proper donning and doffing techniques to ensure comfort and effectiveness.