New surgical glove alleviates need for "double gloving"

A unique, high-sensitivity, double surgical glove that saves time and money will be debuted at the Association of Operating Room Nurses (AORN) Congress in San Diego, March 20-25.

The glove was developed by Bio-Barrier Inc., an infection control technology company based in Los Angeles. The new glove features two separate layers originating from a single cuff at the wrist.

It is more comfortable than wearing two separate gloves ("double gloving"), a practice common among surgeons and nurses who recognize that two layers of barrier help wipe off more pathogens from a needlestick or sharps injury than a single layer. Several studies confirm the relationship between double gloves and the reduction in pathogens.

The company's patents allow the glove to be made of thin layers of latex or polymer while utilizing current powder-free technologies. According to the company, the double glove will save time and money for hospitals and medical practices by reducing the time associated with double donning, by reducing the amount of packaging currently used for single glove sets, and by reducing inventory, storage and waste.

Bio-Barrier holds more than 20 US and international thin-film patents that address new dipping processes for latex and polymer thin films. These patents significantly expand the potential array of protective products available to healthcare and humanitarian workers. Product applications include surgical, exam and occupational gloves, first responder equipment, and personal protection coverings such as condoms.