Overview of Medical Glove Types
Medical gloves are classified by material, sterility, and intended use. Understanding the characteristics of each type enables healthcare facilities to select appropriate gloves for specific clinical applications while optimizing cost and safety.
Material Comparison
| Material | Tactile Sensitivity | Chemical Resistance | Allergy Risk | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Latex | Excellent | Good | High (Type I) | Low-Medium |
| Nitrile | Very Good | Excellent | Very Low | Medium |
| Vinyl (PVC) | Fair | Fair | Low | Low |
| Neoprene | Good | Good | Very Low | High |
| Polyisoprene | Excellent | Good | Very Low | High |
Acceptable Quality Level (AQL)
AQL defines the maximum number of defective units considered acceptable during product inspection. For medical gloves:
- Surgical gloves: AQL 1.0 (examination) to 1.5
- Examination gloves: AQL 1.5 (FDA requirement) to 2.5
- Industrial gloves: AQL 4.0
Selection Guide by Application
- Surgery: Sterile latex or nitrile, AQL 1.0-1.5
- Patient examination: Non-sterile nitrile or latex, AQL 1.5
- Chemotherapy handling: Tested nitrile per ASTM D6978
- General housekeeping: Vinyl or nitrile, AQL 2.5-4.0
Medical Disclaimer
Glove selection should be guided by institutional infection control policies and risk assessments. Consult with your safety officer for specific application requirements.
