Resources Category: Exam and Surgical Gloves

What is a pyrogen?

A pyrogen is a fever producing substance. Endotoxins are pyrogens, although producing a fever is only one of the physiological consequences of endotoxin. Pyrogenicity, like the other consequences of endotoxin depends on the level and rate of introduction. Very low levels will not cause a fever. Higher levels increase the number and severity of potential …

What is a pyrogen? Read More »

Does sterilisation remove endotoxins?

No. The ethylene oxide, steam and radiation sterilisation processes used for gloves do not destroy endotoxins. These forms of sterilisation destroy microorganisms. Upon destruction, endotoxins, the pyrogenic lipopolysaccharides from the cell walls of dead gram negative bacteria, are released from the cell wall and remain capable of causing multiple local and systemic pathological conditions. It …

Does sterilisation remove endotoxins? Read More »

Do surgical gloves have endotoxins?

Whether or not surgical gloves possess significant levels of endotoxin depends on the manufacture practices of each lot or batch. Some gloves have enough endotoxin for one pair to elicit a fever and initiate endotoxin related complications noted previously. Others have undetectable levels. Endotoxin activity is rate and dose related; the level is significant. Because …

Do surgical gloves have endotoxins? Read More »

Are endotoxins found only on gloves?

No. Endotoxin may be present on medical equipment, infusion dialysis equipment, disinfection liquids, air cooler systems, water supplies, air filters, sterilised re-usable devices and generally in the hospital environment. Implants, medical devices utilised for invasive medical procedures and other medical instruments may be contaminated when in contact with sterile or clean medical fields contaminated with …

Are endotoxins found only on gloves? Read More »

How does chlorination work?

Chlorination reduces tackiness by oxidation and additional cross-linking of unbound or partially bound molecules on the glove surface. It involves multiple steps, each of which must be constantly monitored and carefully controlled. Under-chlorinated gloves are tacky and difficult to don; over-chlorinated gloves rapidly degrade becoming brittle and darkly coloured.

Are gloves adversely affected by chlorination?

Poor chlorination practices can result in gloves that are weak, tear easily, have pinholes, are discoloured and can become brittle or gummy. Therefore, it is essential that all steps in the chlorination process be carefully regulated. Improper storage conditions can shorten the shelf life of chlorinated and non-chlorinated gloves.

Does chlorination affect the shelf life of gloves?

Chlorination can potentially affect the shelf life of gloves. Poorly chlorinated gloves rapidly degrade. Discoloration, cracking, tearing and enhanced heat and light sensitivity may occur, thereby shortening the shelf life and reducing barrier effectiveness. Storage conditions including, but not limited to, temperature, humidity, sunlight and/or fluorescent light exposure may affect chlorinated gloves.

Why is glove powder an issue?

Generally, glove powder may cause the following issues: Powder is an irritant that can dry hands and macerate the skin. Powder interferes with optimal wound healing and reduces resilience and strength of repaired tissue. Powder increases and prolongs inflammation by several mechanisms. Powder increases the risk of infection. Powder can irritate the respiratory mucosa and …

Why is glove powder an issue? Read More »