Glove Type
There are 3 major types of exam glove based on material:
Latex Exam Gloves
Latex is the orginal material used to create medical gloves. Due to the great durability and flexibility of natural rubber, latex gloves continue to be used in the medical industry.
Vinyl / Synthetic Exam Gloves
Vinyl gloves are made from the synthetic material polyvinyl chloride (PVC), commonly called vinyl. Due to concerns of latex allergies healthcare facilities have been transitioning to synthetic alternatives like vinyl. Today, vinyl gloves are the most cost effective exam gloves available.
Nitrile Exam Gloves
Vinyl gloves are made from the synthetic material polyvinyl chloride (PVC), commonly called vinyl. Due to concerns of latex allergies healthcare facilities have been transitioning to synthetic alternatives like vinyl. Today, vinyl gloves are the most cost effective exam gloves available.
In general, exam gloves are disposable intended for one time use. Disposable gloves were originally used to provide protection against biological or chemical hazards. However, since disposable gloves have become quite cheap over the years, disposable exam gloves can be feasibly used for everyday tasks. This precaution allows healthcare workers to remain protected from harmful chemicals or bloodborne pathogens while exam gloves are donned.
It is not uncommon for healthcare facilities to stock multiple types of exam gloves. A facility that primarily utilizes latex exam gloves will have synthetic options to accomodate workers who are either allergic or sensitive to latex. Hospitals that only use latex-free gloves may use a combination of vinyl and nitrile gloves to remain cost-effective. Healthcare facilities that have laboratories or oncology departments will use nitrile exam gloves to protect clinicians from harmful chemicals like chemotherapy drugs.
In addition to the above mentioned exam gloves, there are a variety of specialty gloves healthcare facilities utilize:
Sterile Exam Gloves
Sterile exam gloves are medical gloves that have been sterilized. Sterile gloves are used whenever working with patients with open wounds to prevent infections. Most brands of exam gloves are available in sterile versions.
Surgical Gloves
Surgical gloves are medical gloves used by surgeons during operations. Surgical gloves are higher quality and more expensive per glove compared with exam gloves.