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Nitrile vs Latex Exam Gloves: Which Is Right for Your Facility?
Nitrile vs Latex Exam Gloves: Which Is Right for Your Facility?
Nitrile vs Latex Exam Gloves: Which Is Right for Your Facility?
- 5 min reading time
Nitrile vs Latex Exam Gloves
Selecting the correct disposable exam gloves is a decision that hospitals, clinics, physician offices, labs, dental practices and other healthcare facilities have to make. The goal with the use of gloves in healthcare is to offer a barrier between the hand and potentially contaminated items.
The most popular two options are the nitrile and latex exam gloves. Both types of gloves are flexible and protective to all the main tasks in healthcare, but they offer different properties that might make one better than the other in certain uses.
So, how do these nitrile vs latex exam gloves compare-which is right for your needs? Here's what you need to know to choose the glove right for your workplace.
What Are Nitrile Exam Gloves?
The rubber is used in the production of gloves and is also an alternative to natural rubber latex gloves. These gloves are made of synthetic rubber. They are offered in a number of colors, thicknesses, and formulations.
Nitrile is one of the top picks among facilities that want to minimize the potential for latex related allergies or hypersensitivity because nitrile does not contain natural rubber latex proteins.
Nitrile gloves are designed for use in patient care, examination, cleaning, laboratory work and any other circumstance requiring disposable hand protection.
What Are Latex Exam Gloves?
Latex gloves are manufactured from natural rubber latex, a material widely used in healthcare environment for many years. Latex offers good elasticity and flexibility and provides a snug fit.
Rubber, offers a good tactile sensation, which can be advantageous in fine hand movements. Watch out as a natural rubber latex can cause allergy in some people.
For facilities that require the use of latex, policies, procedures, and alternatives for workers or patients with latex sensitivity or allergy should be addressed.
5 Main Differences between Nitrile and Latex Gloves
1. Material
The most fundamental difference is the material.
Nitrile gloves: made from a synthetic rubber Latex glove: made from natural rubber latex
Material – influences the elasticity of the frame, the fit and feeling on the skin and whether it is suitable for certain activities.
2. Latex Allergy Considerations
It is crucial to be aware of your glove compatibility if you have a Latex allergy.
Latex vs. nitrile gloves If you're looking to take all the natural rubber latex exposure out of your facility, you may opt for nitrile gloves as they're latex free. Latex gloves include natural rubber latex proteins that are known to cause allergic reactions.
When can a facility wear latex gloves? Facilities should weigh its patient population, its staffing policies, and its own rules regarding patients.
3. Fit and Comfort
Latex gloves are known for their elasticity and for their close fit to the hand. They will provide a comfortable fit and good tactile sensation
Contemporary nitrile gloves also come in a comfortable, flexible fit, although feel can differ widely from one make to the next. Glove thickness and formulation, along with size and design, will have an impact.
Choose the right glove size for you, if they are not made of latex.
4. Durability and Resistance
Nitrile gloves are prized for their durability and puncture resistance versus many conventional latex glove formulas.
But, as noted above, glove effectiveness can differ by manufacturer, product and type. Just because the glove is made of nitrile or latex does not mean it is a fit for each chemical, drug, or toxin.
For specialty tasks, users should verify the chemical-resistance and chemical-compatibility data provided by the glove manufacturer.
5. Intended Application
The use of right glove can greatly affect the style of right glove you choose.
For general examinations, patient care, lab work, cleaning and other uses where non-latex is desired, nitrile gloves may be an option.
Latex gloves might be suitable in circumstances where the elasticity and superior tactile sensation of latex are advantageous and when concerns about latex allergy have been taken into account.
Always wear the glove that the task requires, that provides the protective barrier you need, is approved by your facility, and is recommended by the manufacturer.
At a Glance: Nitrile Exam Gloves vs Latex Exam Gloves are a common dilemma because both options have their benefits. Here is a comparison table to help you decide which is better for you.
How Should Your Facility Choose?
No glove material is appropriate for every facility, find out what your employees do the most.
Consider:
* Whether a latex-free option is needed
* Required level of protection
* Glove thickness and durability
* Tactile sensitivity and dexterity
* Required sizes
* Intended chemical or material exposure
* Staff and patient comfort
* Facility infection-control procedures
* Manufacturer specifications and certifications
It is also useful to stock multiple types of gloves if various departments have different needs.
Tricare Medical - Hospital and Medical Supplies Online Shopping Store in Tennessee Tricare Medical is the perfect destination for doctors, hospitals, caretakers, and individuals in need of medical and hospital supplies. Our inventory features everything from nitrile and latex exam gloves, respiratory-care products, CPAP supplies, oxygen equipment, and diagnostic supplies to mobility products and more. Shop Medical Supplies Online to Get It Easy for You to Extend Exp.
