When should gloves be changed?

Changing gloves when they become wet, worn, soiled, or torn is essential to maintaining a high standard of hygiene and preventing the spread of infection. Gloves are designed to provide a barrier between contaminants and the healthcare worker, as well as between the worker and the patient.

If gloves become wet, they may be compromised and unable to provide adequate protection, increasing the risk of contamination. Similarly, if gloves show signs of wear or are torn, they lose their integrity and can no longer effectively shield against pathogens. Soiled gloves pose a direct risk as they can transfer harmful microorganisms between patients or surfaces.

Proper glove use dictates that they should be changed whenever they are no longer effective, which aligns with the practice of ensuring safety and infection control in a healthcare environment. This standard is crucial in adhering to protocols designed to protect both patients and healthcare providers from potential infections and cross-contamination.