The Pros and Cons of Wearing Medical Grade Gloves in High Traffic Areas During Coronavirus

During the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, personal protective equipment (PPE), including medical grade gloves, has become a common sight in high traffic areas. However, the use of such gloves is not without its pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the potential benefits and drawbacks of wearing medical grade gloves in these settings.

Pros of Wearing Medical Grade Gloves in High Traffic Areas

Possible Prevention of Infection Spread: Wearing medical grade gloves can serve as a barrier, preventing potential contaminants from transferring from surfaces to your skin. This is particularly important in high traffic areas where the risk of exposure to pathogens is higher.

Reminders to Avoid Touching Your Face: Gloves remind you not to touch your face, reducing the chances of transferring contaminants from surfaces to mucous membranes such as the mouth, nose, and eyes.

Cons of Wearing Medical Grade Gloves in High Traffic Areas

Public Perception and Misuse: While gloves can be beneficial, their misuse can lead to public ridicule. People may use them incorrectly or in inappropriate situations, which can detract from their overall effectiveness.

Proper Technique and Training Required: Wearing gloves correctly is crucial, but many people lack proper training. This can result in improper disposal or wearing, leading to potential contamination and waste.

Contaminated Gloves and Masks: There have been instances where gloves and masks have been improperly worn, leading to further contamination. For example, people wearing gloves to touch money or leaving gloves in public areas can defeat their purpose.

Best Practices for Wearing Medical Grade Gloves

Proper Disposal: Gloves should be disposed of properly to avoid contamination and waste. Discarding them in public areas, such as parking lots, is not only unsanitary but also harmful to the environment.

Handwashing Techniques: Despite their use, handwashing remains a critical part of infection prevention. Proper handwashing techniques should be initiated early in life and reinforced as adults.

Correct Removal Techniques: Removing gloves and masks should be done in a way that minimizes contamination. Improper removal can lead to cross-contamination, rendering them useless.

Correct Use of PPE: Misuse of personal protective equipment, such as using masks as rearview mirror covers, can be dangerous and lead to further contamination. Masks should be worn correctly and regularly discarded.

Conclusion

The use of medical grade gloves in high traffic areas during the coronavirus pandemic can have both advantages and disadvantages. While they can serve as a useful barrier and help prevent the spread of infection, their effectiveness depends on proper use and training. It is essential to educate the public on the correct use of PPE to maximize its benefits and minimize any potential risks.