Disposable latex gloves are important pieces of work gear for many people, most notably doctors and other health care professionals. And, unfortunately, latex allergies are becoming more and more common, due in part to the widespread use of the material in hospitals.
Latex exam gloves, though very useful in preventing contact with any number of unpleasant substances, can cause Type I and Type IV hypersensitivity reactions, as well as irritant contact dermatitis. The type of latex that causes these allergic reactions is used in far more than just medical exam gloves--over 40,000 products, from balloons to Band-Aids to bowling balls, use some form of latex--so it's important to know how to spot a latex allergy to avoid any potentially serious complications.
You may have been born with a latex allergy, but unless you're regularly and repeatedly exposed to latex, you probably haven't noticed. Getting poked and prodded by a doctor's latex glove-encased hand at your yearly physical probably won't trigger the onset of your allergy, but being a doctor and wearing the gloves every day probably will. Also, if you're at the hospital frequently, say for multiple surgeries or if you often visit a habitually ill friend (and you like to steal gloves), it's likely that a latex allergy will be triggered.
Strangely enough, people with allergies to fruits such as bananas, kiwis, and pineapples are often also allergic to latex, so if any of these fruits cause allergic reactions, you may have a latex allergy as well-the fact that these fruits were likely handled by someone wearing latex gloves at some point surely doesn't help. Allergic reactions can range from minor, immediate skin irritation, to a delayed-reaction skin rash similar in severity and discomfort to poison ivy exposure, to immediate and potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis (similar to deadly bee-sting allergies).
As with most allergens, avoidance is the best way to prevent latex allergy flare ups. But, if you work in a hospital or dentist's office and use disposable gloves regularly, or work in one of the many other occupations that involve frequent latex exposure (a balloon factory, perhaps), it's likely nigh-impossible for you to avoid it. There are other options, however.
Some varieties of latex exam gloves are made with low levels of allergy-inducing proteins-these aren't 100% safe for the latex-allergic, but are far less likely to cause irritation. Powder-free latex exam gloves have been shown to greatly reduce airborne latex particles, which can be helpful in preventing the onset of a latex allergy. There are also several varieties of non-latex exam gloves, which offer similar levels of protection without the danger of any allergic reaction. If you're one of the many people who suffer from latex allergies, fear not--your day's work as a doctor, dentist or balloonsmith does not have to be an unpleasant, allergenic affair.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Latex Exam Gloves - Indispensable For Hygiene
For any medical process, where a doctor needs to examine a patient, it becomes indispensable for the doctor and the medical staff to use gloves, to prevent themselves and also the patient from any infection. Latex gloves have been used for a long time for this purpose and continue to be used. Read on for more information.
Medical profession requires close examination of patients and the medical staff has to come in contact with the patients. Hence there is probability of the medical staff of getting infection from the patient. At the same time, the patient also has to be protected from direct touch as it can cause germs to enter his body. Often there is high sensitivity like when a patient is getting operated, and his internal body parts are exposed, not taking sufficient measures may result in infection in his body. Gloves play an essential role here as they are sterilized and protect both the doctor as well as the patient. Gloves are hence used almost everywhere in a medical profession right from a doctor examining a patient to a complicated surgery.
There are different varieties of gloves used for medical purposes; the more popular ones are latex gloves, vinyl gloves, nitrile gloves, and neoprene gloves. Latex gloves are often used for medical examination and surgery purposes. Though owing to the latex allergy some people experience, there are other available choices of gloves yet latex gloves remain one of the most used gloves. They were first used in 1980 by William Stewart Halstead, an influential American surgeon who emphasized the importance of hygiene. Later on, gloves came to be widely used in almost all medical processes at hospitals everywhere due to their hygienic features.
The advantage of latex gloves that make it the most widely used gloves is its features of great strength and flexibility. It is soft, fits the hands perfectly like second skin and has a good grip, thus perfect for tasks where you need precision like surgery. Being resistant to abrasions and cuts, it also gives a little protection to the hands to some extent. It is also very economical, that makes it easy to use everywhere. Disposable gloves further provide a good option as the doctor can throw them after a single use, thus the chances of any infection are further greatly reduced. They are easily available at all medical stores and can also be used for many other things. However, the purpose remains the same, to avoid direct contact of the body from anything for protection.
They come powdered with cornstarch from the inside to make it easier to open them and wear them. However, some people are allergic to the powder used; hence there have been some changes in the way they are manufactured so that they can be worn even without any lubrication. One disadvantage of latex gloves is that they cannot be used when working with chemicals because they are not resistant to chemicals and would get damaged. However, for examination purpose they are still the best. Latex exam gloves are used in hospitals, clinics and for all such medical purposes all over the world. Due to its features of providing complete protection, being easily available, flexibility, convenience in use and affordability, they will continue to be used for a long time in future as well.
This article has been written by an expert, working with EQ Plus, a supplier of black latex gloves and other health care products.
Medical profession requires close examination of patients and the medical staff has to come in contact with the patients. Hence there is probability of the medical staff of getting infection from the patient. At the same time, the patient also has to be protected from direct touch as it can cause germs to enter his body. Often there is high sensitivity like when a patient is getting operated, and his internal body parts are exposed, not taking sufficient measures may result in infection in his body. Gloves play an essential role here as they are sterilized and protect both the doctor as well as the patient. Gloves are hence used almost everywhere in a medical profession right from a doctor examining a patient to a complicated surgery.
There are different varieties of gloves used for medical purposes; the more popular ones are latex gloves, vinyl gloves, nitrile gloves, and neoprene gloves. Latex gloves are often used for medical examination and surgery purposes. Though owing to the latex allergy some people experience, there are other available choices of gloves yet latex gloves remain one of the most used gloves. They were first used in 1980 by William Stewart Halstead, an influential American surgeon who emphasized the importance of hygiene. Later on, gloves came to be widely used in almost all medical processes at hospitals everywhere due to their hygienic features.
The advantage of latex gloves that make it the most widely used gloves is its features of great strength and flexibility. It is soft, fits the hands perfectly like second skin and has a good grip, thus perfect for tasks where you need precision like surgery. Being resistant to abrasions and cuts, it also gives a little protection to the hands to some extent. It is also very economical, that makes it easy to use everywhere. Disposable gloves further provide a good option as the doctor can throw them after a single use, thus the chances of any infection are further greatly reduced. They are easily available at all medical stores and can also be used for many other things. However, the purpose remains the same, to avoid direct contact of the body from anything for protection.
They come powdered with cornstarch from the inside to make it easier to open them and wear them. However, some people are allergic to the powder used; hence there have been some changes in the way they are manufactured so that they can be worn even without any lubrication. One disadvantage of latex gloves is that they cannot be used when working with chemicals because they are not resistant to chemicals and would get damaged. However, for examination purpose they are still the best. Latex exam gloves are used in hospitals, clinics and for all such medical purposes all over the world. Due to its features of providing complete protection, being easily available, flexibility, convenience in use and affordability, they will continue to be used for a long time in future as well.
This article has been written by an expert, working with EQ Plus, a supplier of black latex gloves and other health care products.
Tuesday, July 05, 2011
Consider Nitrile Gloves - Benefits and Grades
Have you used nitrile gloves? They help with a lot of tasks. We use gloves a lot and really don't think about the benefits they provide us. Your hands will thank you for using the proper type of gloves.
These gloves don't have to have latex in them. A latex problem will prevent people from using latex gloves. So nitrile ones are great to stock since you know for sure that no one is going to experience a problem with the gloves while hard at the job. Nitrile is really tough too. One plus side is that they have stronger resistance to chemicals.
Some could be really difficult to put on since they stick to your hands. They can stick and can snap back and be harder to work with. One reason disposable nitrile gloves are better preferred than latex or vinyl gloves is because how easy they are to put on. A coating as well as the material make the initial donning of them easier. Cornstarch makes this happen. Flexibility is another advantage to nitrile.
They are split into three grades of classification. The grading help determines what each type of gloves can be used for. These grades are utility grade, high risk grade, and medical grade. Medical grade is the top notch grade. The very best grade means they are of the best quality.
In second, high risk ones grades fall in. These gloves are used for emergency medical services as with paramedics. They're second grade but nevertheless pass very thorough testing to get there.
The final nitrile gloves grade, utility, means that these have not passed any standards. Utility grade gloves are still useful though.
Nitrile gloves are created in many different sizes so you can be sure you will fit one of them. Different sizes increase the size for the cuff, thickness, and finger sizes too. Sizing may be critical for your application. Gloves that are too tight can cause extreme discomfort.
Discover more about nitrile gloves and find a color that will best suit your profession. Black nitrile gloves may be the best one for your job.
These gloves don't have to have latex in them. A latex problem will prevent people from using latex gloves. So nitrile ones are great to stock since you know for sure that no one is going to experience a problem with the gloves while hard at the job. Nitrile is really tough too. One plus side is that they have stronger resistance to chemicals.
Some could be really difficult to put on since they stick to your hands. They can stick and can snap back and be harder to work with. One reason disposable nitrile gloves are better preferred than latex or vinyl gloves is because how easy they are to put on. A coating as well as the material make the initial donning of them easier. Cornstarch makes this happen. Flexibility is another advantage to nitrile.
They are split into three grades of classification. The grading help determines what each type of gloves can be used for. These grades are utility grade, high risk grade, and medical grade. Medical grade is the top notch grade. The very best grade means they are of the best quality.
In second, high risk ones grades fall in. These gloves are used for emergency medical services as with paramedics. They're second grade but nevertheless pass very thorough testing to get there.
The final nitrile gloves grade, utility, means that these have not passed any standards. Utility grade gloves are still useful though.
Nitrile gloves are created in many different sizes so you can be sure you will fit one of them. Different sizes increase the size for the cuff, thickness, and finger sizes too. Sizing may be critical for your application. Gloves that are too tight can cause extreme discomfort.
Discover more about nitrile gloves and find a color that will best suit your profession. Black nitrile gloves may be the best one for your job.
Sunday, July 03, 2011
Latex Gloves Vs Vinyl Gloves
There are many different types of gloves available for hand protection. They come in a wide range of different materials so that they can protect both the wearer and the people they come in contact with from different threats. These can be threats such as hazardous chemicals to protecting against diseases and infections. For example many car mechanics wear latex gloves to stop car oil from coming into contact with their skin as this can be potentially dangerous to their health. At the same time medical and scientific staff use latex, vinyl and other gloves to protect their patients or test samples from outside infection.
Latex gloves are great for care workers, health workers and medical workers. The reason for this is they provide an excellent barrier that guard against contact with blood, other body fluids, and microorganisms. Latex gloves are also very efficient as they provide a strong barrier with very little leakage compared to other glove materials as well as maintaining their integrity longer whilst being used. Latex gloves are also very comfortable to wear and are easy to put on whether they are powdered or powder free gloves, this makes them good for completing complicated tasks such as surgery. The only problem with latex is that many people have latex allergies but there are wide ranges of alternative solutions.
Vinyl gloves tend to be made from poly vinyl chloride also known as PVC. They are soft and comfortable to wear whilst also being economical to use. While they aren't as strong as other gloves, vinyl gloves are still practical for low risk tasks because they have good anti static properties and are highly resistant to fats, acids and alcohols. Vinyl gloves also minimise irritation of eczema and other skin problems.
My conclusion is that both vinyl gloves and latex gloves are excellent and that your choice of glove should be based on the type of work you need them for and the type of person that has to don them.
If you want to find out more about vinyl and latex gloves then why not visit Gompels Healthcare where you will be able to purchase latex, nitrile and vinyl gloves [http://www.gompels.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/498] as well as other healthcare industry products and supplies.
Latex gloves are great for care workers, health workers and medical workers. The reason for this is they provide an excellent barrier that guard against contact with blood, other body fluids, and microorganisms. Latex gloves are also very efficient as they provide a strong barrier with very little leakage compared to other glove materials as well as maintaining their integrity longer whilst being used. Latex gloves are also very comfortable to wear and are easy to put on whether they are powdered or powder free gloves, this makes them good for completing complicated tasks such as surgery. The only problem with latex is that many people have latex allergies but there are wide ranges of alternative solutions.
Vinyl gloves tend to be made from poly vinyl chloride also known as PVC. They are soft and comfortable to wear whilst also being economical to use. While they aren't as strong as other gloves, vinyl gloves are still practical for low risk tasks because they have good anti static properties and are highly resistant to fats, acids and alcohols. Vinyl gloves also minimise irritation of eczema and other skin problems.
My conclusion is that both vinyl gloves and latex gloves are excellent and that your choice of glove should be based on the type of work you need them for and the type of person that has to don them.
If you want to find out more about vinyl and latex gloves then why not visit Gompels Healthcare where you will be able to purchase latex, nitrile and vinyl gloves [http://www.gompels.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/498] as well as other healthcare industry products and supplies.
Saturday, July 02, 2011
Choosing the Right Medical Gloves For Your Examination Needs
When selecting medical gloves for your hospital, clinic or private practice, it's important to consider more than just price and quantity. The main consideration should be on personal comfort and protection against toxins, infectious agents and other diseases that can be spread by direct contact with open and exposed areas. Knowing how you'll use the gloves is important in making a decision. Fortunately, there are more choices than ever for every kind of medical establishment, whether you work with patients on a daily basis or don't come in contact with them but still need affordable protection against germs and pathogens. Here are some of the most popular types of exam gloves you can choose from.
Vinyl Gloves - These are incredibly affordable and comfortable, making them ideal for frequent use. As the most economical value when it comes to disposable gloves, vinyl gloves should not be used in high risk situations such as surgeries or when you may come in contact with bodily fluids from patients. They are prone to rips and tears with repeated use, however their anti-static properties and resistance to certain substances such as alcohols and acids are second to none - making vinyl medical gloves a highly recommended choice for this purpose.
Latex Gloves - The most popular type of glove for surgeries, high risk and heavy duty use. Latex medical gloves have been the most popular choice of gloves in the medical profession for well over a century. Their supple construction makes latex gloves fit like a second skin, while their slightly sticky exterior makes it easy to grasp surgical instruments and other devices without fumbling. The rubber proteins that make up latex gloves may cause allergies and skin reactions in some people, so they are not recommended for sensitive skin. However, their resiliency and toughness stay true under even the harshest demands, making them a must-have for any fast paced hospital, clinic or medical institution.
Nitrile Gloves - Nitrile medical gloves don't cause a skin reaction the way latex can and are highly durable and resistant to tears, rips and holes. Unlike other types of gloves, nitrile gloves are activated by your body heat to conform to the shape of your hand for a unique fit. Like latex gloves, nitrile gloves have a tacky outer layer which makes it easy to grasp and handle items. In addition to their superior use in the medical field, nitrile gloves are also an ideal choice to help avoid skin contact with oils, grease and solvents and are highly recommended for the medical field as well as in automotive and industrial businesses.
Synthetic Gloves - Made as a hypoallergenic alternative to latex, synthetic medical gloves offer the same type of premium grade protection without the risk of irritating the skin. They're extremely resilient, flexible and comfortable for even the most demanding uses in the medical field and beyond. Because of their unique material makeup, synthetic gloves can also allow you to freely touch, inspect and examine areas requiring greater dexterity and nimbleness of the hands.
Medical Exam Gloves are the backbone to most medical supply cabinets everywhere. Joe Giovinco and his team at Med 101 work hard to study and research these products every day. To learn more about their project visit the industry-leading authority ExamGloveStore.com
Vinyl Gloves - These are incredibly affordable and comfortable, making them ideal for frequent use. As the most economical value when it comes to disposable gloves, vinyl gloves should not be used in high risk situations such as surgeries or when you may come in contact with bodily fluids from patients. They are prone to rips and tears with repeated use, however their anti-static properties and resistance to certain substances such as alcohols and acids are second to none - making vinyl medical gloves a highly recommended choice for this purpose.
Latex Gloves - The most popular type of glove for surgeries, high risk and heavy duty use. Latex medical gloves have been the most popular choice of gloves in the medical profession for well over a century. Their supple construction makes latex gloves fit like a second skin, while their slightly sticky exterior makes it easy to grasp surgical instruments and other devices without fumbling. The rubber proteins that make up latex gloves may cause allergies and skin reactions in some people, so they are not recommended for sensitive skin. However, their resiliency and toughness stay true under even the harshest demands, making them a must-have for any fast paced hospital, clinic or medical institution.
Nitrile Gloves - Nitrile medical gloves don't cause a skin reaction the way latex can and are highly durable and resistant to tears, rips and holes. Unlike other types of gloves, nitrile gloves are activated by your body heat to conform to the shape of your hand for a unique fit. Like latex gloves, nitrile gloves have a tacky outer layer which makes it easy to grasp and handle items. In addition to their superior use in the medical field, nitrile gloves are also an ideal choice to help avoid skin contact with oils, grease and solvents and are highly recommended for the medical field as well as in automotive and industrial businesses.
Synthetic Gloves - Made as a hypoallergenic alternative to latex, synthetic medical gloves offer the same type of premium grade protection without the risk of irritating the skin. They're extremely resilient, flexible and comfortable for even the most demanding uses in the medical field and beyond. Because of their unique material makeup, synthetic gloves can also allow you to freely touch, inspect and examine areas requiring greater dexterity and nimbleness of the hands.
Medical Exam Gloves are the backbone to most medical supply cabinets everywhere. Joe Giovinco and his team at Med 101 work hard to study and research these products every day. To learn more about their project visit the industry-leading authority ExamGloveStore.com
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