From nurses to physicians, all general healthcare personnel are required to wear examination gloves. Examination gloves are essential for the protection and safety of both patients and physicians. Technology advancements have enhanced the development of various types of examination gloves in the healthcare industry made of materials such as vinyl, latex, and nitrile. Although they serve the same purpose, examination gloves are different depending on the material they are made of. Here are the main differences between latex, vinyl, and nitrile examination gloves:

• Vinyl Gloves

Latex free, vinyl examination gloves are a cost effective and comfortable solution for medical professionals. They are well suited for the majority of clinical work and offer a soft feel and touch. Over the recent years, technology has advanced incredibly in the area of vinyl gloves resulting in stronger and more comfortable examination gloves. The elongation and tactile sensitivity features have also improved. However, vinyl gloves remain less tactile for sensitive work and less durable than latex or nitrile gloves. Vinyl examination gloves are made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC and offer standard protection.

• Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile examination gloves are considered safe and resistant gloves that may be used even in high risk areas such as the emergency rooms or trauma units. The material they are made of is chemically resistant which makes it ideal when dealing with most types of harsh chemicals. Despite their resistance, nitrile examination gloves offer a soft touch. In addition to the chemical resistance, nitrile gloves are also puncture resistant and are latex free. They offer excellent resistance to wear and tear and they are made of synthetic rubber. With low resistance to friction, nitrile gloves are very easy to slide on. However, they should not be stored in excessive light or heat as that can cause the rubber to disintegrate more rapidly.

• Latex Gloves

The decline of latex use has become obvious over the recent years. Latex is basically disappearing in medical products, including in examination gloves, leaving room for the more versatile nitrile gloves. There are hospitals that prohibit even latex balloons on their premises. Latex sensitivity and allergic reactions contributed greatly to this decline although latex examination gloves offer greater sensitivity, comfort, and durability than other types of gloves. Many healthcare workers are sensitive to the skin problems occurring from wearing latex examination gloves. These may range from irritation and redness to dermatitis. However, Latex gloves are still preferred by some surgeons as they offer an excellent fit and tactile sensitivity. Latex gloves deliver mid-range protection.

Examination gloves can be powdered and non-powdered. The use of powder for examination gloves lubricates the gloves and makes them easier to put on. In most cases, cornstarch is used because it is a non-irritating element. However, powder may interfere with the healing process as it enters the tissue, which is why so many medical professionals choose non-powdered gloves. Yet, today’s technology has nearly eliminated this problem by adding a special coating on the inner side of the gloves.

At the First Aid Zone, we offer a wide range of examination gloves in varying sizes. Call us or order online today for the best deals in gloves!