As we navigate new habits in the new normal era, many people are choosing to wear latex gloves to stop the spread of COVID-19. This choice of latex gloves is largely based on the comfort and flexibility of the gloves themselves.
However, simply wearing latex gloves doesn’t mean you’re immune to the coronavirus. Wearing latex gloves also doesn’t excuse you from not washing your hands. Even with latex gloves, you should still follow health protocols such as washing your hands, wearing a mask, and maintaining physical distance while outside the home.
Although latex gloves are much easier to obtain now than during the Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB), it’s recommended that you purchase only what you need and avoid hoarding them. Professionals and medical personnel will need these gloves even more than they do respirators, masks, face shields, and hand sanitizer.
You can find and purchase latex gloves through your nearest pharmacy or trusted online pharmacy. It’s also important to learn more about latex gloves before deciding to purchase and use them.
Function of Latex Gloves
In general, latex gloves protect your hands from dirt, the risk of contamination, the spread of germs, bacteria, or viruses, and the transmission of disease. Latex gloves are widely used in healthcare settings due to their elasticity and comfort. Surgeons also often choose to use latex gloves due to their high sensitivity to touch.
Latex Glove Specifications
Latex gloves are made from natural rubber, which is safe to use. Latex gloves are widely chosen by many people because they have excellent specifications, such as:
- Thin enough to be more comfortable to wear
- High level of touch sensitivity
- Safe for long-term wear
- Works well to prevent contamination from work involving infectious materials
- More affordable
- Highly elastic and strong
- Easily biodegradable
Despite the many advantages of latex gloves, they also have disadvantages. Some people are known to be allergic to latex, so it’s important to ensure you don’t have a latex allergy before using them.
You can find and purchase latex gloves at pharmacies and online drug stores. Latex gloves vary widely in price; you can compare them before purchasing.
Besides the familiar white gloves, latex gloves also come in other colors, such as black. But does the color of your latex gloves matter? The answer is yes. White gloves are typically used in accordance with industry standards. White is also commonly used in jobs that often involve cross-contamination.
Wearing colored latex gloves can also be helpful in your work. For example, in laboratories, colored gloves are used to distinguish users in one area from others, making it easier to identify and prevent contamination.
How to Use Latex Gloves Correctly
Once you’ve decided to purchase and use latex gloves, you should understand the correct way to put them on. This is crucial for optimal protection. Here’s how to use latex gloves properly:
1. Choose gloves with the right size
One of the most important steps in using latex gloves is choosing the right size. Ill-fitting gloves will increase your risk of contamination. Gloves that are too loose will reduce flexibility and comfort.
2. Check gloves before use
It’s also important to check the condition of the latex gloves you plan to use. Make sure they are not torn or have holes to ensure your hands are fully protected.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly
Before putting on latex gloves, you must wash your hands thoroughly. However, do not put on gloves while your hands are still wet. Make sure to dry your hands thoroughly before putting on latex gloves, and do not touch other objects such as cell phones or other objects.
4. Put it on the right way
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Try not to touch the outside of the gloves while putting them on to keep them clean. To do this, put the latex glove on your dominant hand (right or left) first, trying to hold the glove as little as possible.
Then, put the other glove on your other hand, using your dominant, gloved hand to pull it off. Once both gloves are on your hands, you can adjust your fingers in the gloves.
It’s also important to remove rings, watches, and other jewelry from your hands before putting on the gloves. This will help prevent your gloves from tearing quickly.
5. Removing gloves correctly
The important thing to remember when removing gloves is to avoid touching the outside of the glove. This can cause unwanted fluids or substances to get on your skin.
The correct way to remove gloves is to start with your dominant hand. Insert your fingers into the opening of the glove and pull it out. Then, carefully do the same. Use your dominant, ungloved hand to remove the glove from your other hand.
6. Discard gloves after use
After using latex gloves, it is recommended that you do not wash or reuse disposable latex gloves. Make sure to replace your latex gloves when you need to use them again.
Choosing latex gloves and using them correctly can optimize their function. Don’t let your gloves go to waste due to incorrect use. Proper use will provide benefits such as preventing the spread of viruses and bacteria. Don’t forget to adhere to health protocols and maintain a safe distance when you’re outside.
