Nitrile Gloves

By Mary Stasiewicz
Nitrile gloves are gloves which are gloves which are constructed of a synthetic material known as nitrile. These gloves are commonly used in the medical industry in situations where latex gloves would be required. This synthetic material has properties similar to latex.

Nitrile gloves have become popular in light of an increasing awareness to latex allergies. Nitrile gloves are far less likely than latex gloves to trigger an allergic response in either the patient or health care professional.

Advantages of Nitrile Gloves

There are many advantages to using nitrile gloves. The most well known advantage to this type of glove is the lower potential for allergic reaction. Nitrile gloves are often used in place of latex gloves when there is a concern of a possible latex allergy. If the patient or medical professional is allergic to latex, nitrile gloves are a viable alternative. Nitrile was synthesized to have many of the desirable qualities of latex such as durability, elasticity and sensitivity. They were also synthesized to have better resistance to oil based products. Latex gloves may begin to deteriorate within minutes of exposure to oil based products while nitrile gloves can withstand this contact.

When Are Nitrile Gloves Used?

Nitrile can be used to create both surgical and examination gloves. Surgical gloves are heavy weight gloves required when invasive medical procedures are performed. Examination gloves are lighter weight gloves used during non-invasive procedures and examinations where the medical professional is in contact with mucous membranes and non-intact skin. In both scenarios, the use of gloves prevents germs, bacteria and viruses from being transferred from patient to medical professional as well as from medical professional to patient.

Nitrile gloves may be used in the following common situation situations:

Other Uses for Nitrile Gloves

Nitrile gloves are not used exclusively in the medical profession. Nitrile gloves can be used for a variety of other purposes including providing protection from chemicals and pesticides. They can be useful in any industry where employees come into contact with potentially hazardous materials including chemicals and pesticides. This may include landscaping employees, factory workers, and repairpersons that may come in contact with harmful chemicals.

Nitrile gloves may also be used by employees in the food service industry. The use of gloves by employees who handle and prepare food for patrons can greatly reduce the potential for transmittal of food born diseases.