Properly donning and doffing latex gloves is crucial to ensure effective protection and to prevent cross-contamination. Here are step-by-step instructions for both processes:
Donning Latex Gloves:
- Prepare for Donning:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before putting on gloves. This step is essential to remove any dirt or germs from your hands.
- Ensure that the gloves are the correct size for your hands and that you have a new, clean pair of gloves ready to use.
- Open the Glove Package:
- Carefully open the glove package without touching the gloves directly. If the gloves are individually wrapped, open the package without removing the gloves until you are ready to put them on.
- Hold the First Glove:
- Identify the glove for your dominant hand (usually the hand you write with) and hold it by the folded cuff or wrist area. Avoid touching the palm or fingers of the glove.
- Slide on the First Glove:
- With your opposite hand, gently slide your fingers into the glove while keeping the cuff folded over your wrist. Pull the glove over your fingers and hand, making sure it fits snugly.
- Secure the First Glove:
- Once the first glove is in place, use your gloved hand to adjust and secure the glove properly. Ensure that the fingers are fully extended and there are no creases or gaps in the material.
- Don the Second Glove:
- Now, use your gloved hand to pick up the second glove from the package, being careful not to touch the outside surface of the glove.
- With the second glove in hand, slide your fingers into it while keeping the cuff folded over your wrist. Pull the glove over your fingers and hand until it fits snugly.
- Final Adjustments:
- Once both gloves are on, adjust them to ensure a proper fit. Check for any gaps or folds in the material that may compromise the glove’s effectiveness.
Doffing Latex Gloves:
- Pinch and Peel Technique:
- To remove the gloves, use the “pinch and peel” technique. With one hand, pinch the outside of the glove near the wrist area, taking care not to touch your skin. Peel the glove downwards, turning it inside out.
- Hold the Removed Glove:
- Hold the removed glove in the opposite hand, making sure the contaminated surface is now contained within the glove.
- Slide Fingers Under the Second Glove:
- With your gloved hand, slide your fingers underneath the cuff of the second glove. Avoid touching the outside surface of the second glove.
- Peel Off the Second Glove:
- Peel the second glove off by turning it inside out, pulling it down and over the first glove. The contaminated surface of the second glove should be trapped within the first glove.
- Dispose of Gloves Properly:
- Discard the used gloves in an appropriate trash bin or designated container for contaminated waste.
- Wash Your Hands:
- After removing the gloves, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Remember to practice proper hand hygiene before and after wearing gloves to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure effective glove use. Additionally, follow any specific procedures or protocols for donning and doffing gloves in your specific work environment, especially in medical and healthcare settings.
