There is actually a correct way to remove contaminated examination gloves so that hand and environmental contamination are minimized.For a very brief yet informative video- click here.
Chinese investigators recently published a study comparing hand and environmental contamination rates between two glove removal methods. Fifty healthcare workers performed a personal glove removal method and a Centers for Disease Control (CDC)-recommended glove removal method at distances of 2 feet and 3 feet from the trash bin after the application of fluorescent solution (the simulated contaminant) onto their gloved hands.
The incidence of contamination on the front of the removed gloves was significantly lower when using the CDC glove removal method. The incidence of contamination on the front of the removed gloves and on the cover of the trash bin was significantly lower at 3 feet than at 2 feet. There was no significant difference in hand contamination rate in either removal methods based on distance from the trash bin and type of HCW.
These are interesting findings, however, the message remains simple: wash your hands before AND after glove removal as hand and environmental contamination is not eliminated by glove use.
