How Often To Change Vinyl Examination Gloves

Vinyl examination gloves are not only used in medical settings to avoid contact with pathogens, but are also a popular choice when tackling messy household chores. If you have a latex allergy, vinyl examination gloves provide a good alternative. Vinyl examination gloves are designed to be used only for limited periods of time.

Changing Vinyl Gloves

• Vinyl examination gloves are often used in laboratories and in the food service industry because of their resistance to oils, food and water. However, they tear more easily than latex gloves, and need to be changed frequently. Vinyl examination gloves are best suited for short usages, where there is no chance of exposure to bodily fluids or blood-borne pathogens. Immediately change any glove that develops even the smallest tear. Wash and dry your hands before putting on the new pair of gloves.

  In order to ensure the best protection from vinyl examination gloves, change them at least every 15 minutes. Do not attempt to re-use vinyl gloves, because they have already been weakened by the first use. Instead, dispose of them properly. Hospitals and doctors' offices will have specially marked bins for disposal. At home or in other settings, used vinyl gloves can be thrown out with the regular trash.

Tips for Using Vinyl Exam Gloves

• You can reduce the risk of tearing vinyl gloves by removing and safely storing rings before any job that requires vinyl gloves. Rings can tear or puncture the gloves. Likewise, jagged or sharp fingernails also pose a risk of tearing the gloves when you are putting them on. File and trim your nails regularly and do a visual check on them just before slipping on the vinyl gloves.

  Choose a size that you can easily slip your hands into without having to pull or stretch the fingers or palm. Have a back-up pair on hand so you can quickly put on a new vinyl glove in case of a rip or puncture. Throw away any boxes of vinyl examination gloves that have passed their expiration dates.