Best Practices for Changing Coronavirus Gloves: When and How

Wearing gloves is a crucial measure in preventing the spread of coronavirus. However, gloves can also pose contamination risks if not managed properly. In this article, we will discuss the recommended frequency for changing gloves, best practices, and contamination risks associated with glove use.

When Should You Change Your Coronavirus Gloves?

When you wear gloves, your hands are more protected from contaminated surfaces, but they can also become sources of contamination. Proper glove change frequency is crucial to maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Here are the key times to change your gloves:

After changing tasks: Even if you don't believe you have come into contact with contaminants, changing gloves after completing a task reduces the risk of cross-contamination. Transition between different areas: When moving from one area of the body to another, change gloves to prevent the transfer of contaminants from one surface to another. Before eating: Maintaining hygiene practices before eating is essential. Change gloves to avoid transferring any contaminants to your food. After using the restroom: Following healthcare practices, it's important to change gloves and wash hands thoroughly. In healthcare settings: Follow specific shift protocols by washing hands at the start and end of your shift, and whenever entering or leaving patient areas while using gloves for bodily secretions. When handling different items in food service: In a food service setting, consider changing gloves between handling different types of food, such as meat and vegetables.

Best Practices for Glove Usage and Removal

Wearing gloves can give a false sense of security, but improper use can lead to contamination risks. Here are some guidelines for the proper use and removal of gloves, as well as tips for decontaminating and storing them.

Purposing Your Gloves

Choose the right gloves for the task. Different types of gloves (e.g., examination, mechanic’s, gardening, leather) are designed for specific uses. Develop proper procedures for putting on and removing gloves to minimize contamination risks. Learn how to decontaminate gloves properly, especially when using latex gloves. Stay focused and present when handling gloves to ensure all steps are followed correctly.

Changing Gloves

Change gloves between tasks to ensure continuous protection and hygiene. In healthcare settings, change gloves for various procedures, such as oral cares, incontinence care, and dressing changes. In food service, change gloves between working with different food items to maintain hygiene standards.

Contamination Risks of Glove Use

Removing gloves and putting them on can contaminate your hands. For example, wearing gloves while driving can transfer contaminants to your car, and wearing gloves while entering buildings can transfer contaminants to various surfaces. Consider the following:

Purpose of the gloves Procedures for putting on and removing gloves Decontamination methods for gloves Continuous attention to glove usage and hygiene

Decontaminating Gloves and Hands

Latex gloves should be set aside for 24 hours in a warm but not direct sunlight area to decontaminate. Alternatively, wash gloves with warm soapy water, such as Dawn dish soap, while wearing them. Proper hand hygiene is also crucial, as detailed in the guidelines below.

Gloving Guide for Grocery Shoppers

Follow these steps for safe glove usage while shopping for groceries:

Allow the car to air out before entering to maintain hygiene. Putting on gloves and a mask in the parking lot to begin your shopping trip. After shopping, store groceries in the car, then remove gloves and mask and proceed to drive home. When you get home, take the groceries inside, put everything away, and wash your hands with soap and water. Consider washing gloves in warm soapy water with Dawn dish soap, and hang them on the patio for drying. Create a written checklist to follow, ensuring proper execution of practices.

Hand Hygiene

Hand hygiene is paramount whether you're wearing gloves or not. Here are some key steps:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Purchase gloves and decontamination supplies from reputable brands and suppliers. Store gloves properly to maintain hygiene and extend their lifespan.

By following these guidelines and best practices, you can ensure that your glove usage is effective and hygienic. Remember, while gloves provide an added layer of protection, proper hand hygiene is just as important in preventing the spread of the coronavirus.