5 Things to Know about Disposable Aprons and Gowns

Healthcare professionals are at the most significant risk of contracting an infection and therefore require adequate PPE (Personal Protective Gear) to protect them from the infection and prevent cross-contamination.

Gloves, aprons, and gowns are essential protective gear that must be worn by all healthcare workers when performing a procedure or surgery. However, keep some important points in mind, or they may increase the risk. You can click here for more information.

PPE – Not a Substitute for Hygiene

Please be aware the PPE is no substitute for hygiene. Please ensure proper hand hygiene before putting on and removing PPE. Ensure you wash your hands with soap and sanitiser before and after using any of the PPE gear. Most importantly, buy only HACCP-certified gowns and aprons that come with waist ties, neckties, dispenser boxes, and waterproof materials.

Single-Use and Fast Disposal

Disposable gowns and aprons are for single-use only and should not be washed for reuse. They should be disposed of immediately after removal.

Safe Material

Gowns are made of liquid-proof poly-coated material. It has long sleeves with cuffs and an adjustable neckline with neck binding ties. Cover gowns, on the other hand, are meant to cover the entire body and are made of fluid-resistant, non-woven polypropylene material.

Isolation gowns are meant to provide high protection to wearers and patients with highly contagious infections. These are made of single-ply polypropylene material with no stitches. They have glued seams to prevent the passage of fluid or bacteria.

Aprons, too, are made of poly-coated material and are generally worn over other protective apparels for added hygiene and protection because of exposure to various hazards in the hospital. Plastic aprons are used in different areas like operation theatre, patient wards, isolation wards, and ICU.

Use of Disposable Aprons

Disposable, single-use plastic aprons are recommended for general clinical use when coming in contact with patients, material, or equipment, leading to contamination of uniform and other clothing with microorganisms.

Aprons are also to be worn when coming in contact with blood, bodily fluids, or chemicals. If there is a risk of an excessive splashing of blood or bodily fluids, full-body gowns may be recommended.

Removing the Aprons

When removing the apron, roll it downwards from the chest with the outer surface going in to avoid touching the contaminated outer surface with hands. Remember to dispose of it in a hazardous waste bin only.

Disposable aprons and plastic gowns are made of Polypropylene and Polyethylene fabrics, which are comfortable and skin-friendly to be worn throughout the day and for long hours. The fabric is durable, comfortable, and tear-resistant. They are readily available online at reasonable rates. For more details, you can click here.

To conclude, while PPE or any protective gear is meant to protect the wearer and others from contracting infections, it is only effective if used, worn, and disposed of correctly. You must keep the above-mentioned points in mind while buying and using PPE.

Getting it wrong at any stage will simply defeat the whole purpose and contaminate the surface or body, leading to infections.

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