| |
General |
| » |
Why
is latex glove a better choice of protection?
Latex, being the main raw material in rubber gloves manufacturing,
is the gold standard for durability. It demonstrates superior
elasticity, strength and barrier protection. It out performs
vinyl as well as any synthetic rubber in terms of maintaining
barrier integrity in routine and high risks procedures. Research
shows that latex gloves provide up to 9 times more protection
during normal use than non-latex gloves.
|
| |
|
| » |
Are
latex gloves made from natural rubber latex?
Yes, latex gloves are made from natural rubber derived from
the sap of rubber trees.
|
| |
|
| » |
Can
you use hand lotion under latex gloves?
It is recommended to use hand lotion in between or after glove
use only. If you are to use hand cream or lotion, please choose
one that is water-based and not petroleum or oil-based. Petroleum
or oil-based lotions may deteriorate the barrier properties
of the gloves.
|
| |
|
| » |
How
can you tell if a glove has degraded and should not be used?
A glove may have degraded when it turns hard or brittle and
loses its elasticity, or turns too soft and does not return
into shape after being stretched. Change of color in the glove
should also be a warning sign. DO NOT use gloves that show signs
of degradation. In addition, use gloves prior to their expiration
date.
|
| |
|
| » |
What
are the storage guidelines for gloves?
Always store gloves in the original packaging in a cool, dry
and well ventilated area. Stay away from dust, sunlight, moisture,
X-ray, and excessive heat above 100 F (37 C).
|
| |
|
| |
Latex Allergy |
| » |
What
are latex allergies?
Some individuals may experience discomfort in the hands or have
allergic reactions when wearing or after wearing latex or plastic
gloves. It has been known that products which contain natural
rubber latex may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some
individuals. These reactions range from dry, itchy, crusty skin
with cracks or sores, to a runny nose, wheezing, difficulty
breathing, swelling in the face, cramps and shock. Rare cases
can even be potentially life threatening.
However, the exact cause of latex allergies is still unknown.
Researchers are also unable to determine the exact level of
latex protein, or the length of time an individual needs to
be exposed to become allergic.
|
| |
|
| » |
How
can you prevent and protect yourself from latex allergy?
All patients should be questioned about a history of latex allergies
when being admitted. A history suggestive of reactions to latex
may include any symptoms suffered from contact with rubber products.
Patients who have latex allergy or patients with spina bifida,
regardless of their history, should be treated in a latex free
environment.
Many medical facilities have chosen to use only low protein,
powder free gloves to help prevent latex allergies. If you are
at a high risk of developing latex allergies, non-latex synthetic
gloves such as vinyl or nitrile gloves should be considered
and glove usage should be minimized.
For more information on latex allergy, please consult with your
physician or an allergist.
|
| |
|
