For years, latex has been the preferred material for surgical gloves, providing comfort and flexibility. However, due to the concern of latex-associated allergic reactions and yearly material cost increases, latex has some drawbacks. Medline looks at some challenges associated with latex, alternative materials and the latex-free solution.
The challenges of latex
Ten per cent of healthcare workers suffer from latex allergies, compared to just 4.3 per cent of the general population1, and the risk of developing a latex sensitivity increases with repeated and prolonged exposure.
Additionally, almost 78 per cent of skin issues in the healthcare environment go unreported2, suggesting the issue is even greater than what the figures show. This could mean several clinical staff and patients may suffer from a latex allergy without realising they are at risk, either due to an existing allergy, or a recently developed one caused by continued use.
Alternatives to latex
Efforts to reduce the risks of latex has prompted the introduction of several latex-free alternatives. Initially, synthetic materials such as Neoprene were introduced as an alternative, with the aim of removing the allergy risk and improving safety within the theatre environment. However, this first-generation synthetic material lacked the comfort and elasticity associated with latex, leading to an unsatisfactory glove experience.
Several years after the development of Neoprene, a material called Polyisoprene (PI) was developed, which closely mimics the performance of latex gloves.
Introducing SensiCare®: Medline’s portfolio of synthetic, latex-free gloves
The SensiCare range was created using PI, as it more closely mimics the comfort, strength and elasticity associated with latex gloves, with further improvements in chemical and chemotherapy drug permeation resistance. This unique formulation of PI is designed to have a molecular structure that is virtually identical to latex, providing the same level of exceptional performance and comfort that you would expect from a latex glove.
Whether it’s a standard, microsurgical or a speciality glove that you need, Medline offers a diverse range of SensiCare options to suit every clinical task.
To find out more and to request your free SensiCare surgical glove sample kit go to:
https://www.medline.eu/uk/solutions/golatexfreecampaign
References
1. Wu, M., McIntosh, J., & Liu, J. (2016). Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: Why it remains a problem? Journal of Occupational Health, 138-144.
2. Royal College of Nursing. https://www.rcn.org.uk/professional-development/publications/rcn-survey-exploring-skin-health-issues-covid-19-pub-009244
