Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, and their hands are their most valuable tools. They’re constantly on the move, caring for patients, administering medications, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. However, this demanding profession can take a toll on the skin, especially when it comes to wearing gloves. In this article, we will explore the types of skin reactions and hypersensitivity that nurses may encounter while wearing gloves, and introduce a solution in the form of GloveOn COATS nitrile gloves with colloidal oatmeal to combat skin irritation.
Types of Skin Reactions
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
This is the most common type of skin reaction associated with glove use. It occurs when the skin’s natural protective barrier is compromised due to frequent exposure to irritants found in gloves, such as powders or chemicals.
Symptoms may include redness, itching, dryness, and even peeling or cracking of the skin.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Some nurses may develop allergies to the materials in latex or nitrile gloves. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts to proteins or chemicals present in the gloves.
Symptoms can range from itching and redness to more severe reactions like blisters, hives, or even difficulty breathing in extreme cases.
Mechanical Skin Irritation
Wearing gloves for extended periods can lead to mechanical skin irritation, which is caused by friction between the glove material and the skin.
Symptoms may include chafing, blistering, or sore spots on the hands.
Hypersensitivity to Gloves
Hypersensitivity to gloves, whether it’s an irritant or allergic reaction, can significantly impact a nurse’s ability to perform their duties effectively. It can lead to discomfort, pain, and even the need for time off work to allow the skin to heal. Furthermore, it can compromise infection control measures, as nurses might be tempted to skip glove use to avoid further irritation.
A Solution: GloveOn COATS Nitrile Gloves with Colloidal Oatmeal
To address the issue of skin irritation and hypersensitivity caused by gloves, consider using GloveOn COATS nitrile gloves with colloidal oatmeal. These gloves offer several benefits:
Colloidal Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal has been used for centuries to soothe and protect the skin. It helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and reduce irritation.
Nitrile Material: Nitrile gloves are an excellent alternative for individuals with latex allergies. They provide excellent barrier protection while being gentle on the skin.
COATS Technology: GloveOn COATS gloves are coated with colloidal oatmeal, which is released as the gloves are worn. This continuous moisturisation helps combat dryness and irritation.
Powder-Free: These gloves are powder-free, reducing the risk of irritant contact dermatitis caused by glove powder.
Enhanced Comfort: The colloidal oatmeal coating not only soothes the skin but also enhances glove comfort, making them ideal for long shifts.
Nurses face numerous challenges in their profession, and skin irritation caused by gloves shouldn’t be one of them. Understanding the types of skin reactions and hypersensitivity that can occur due to glove use is essential for preventing and managing these issues. GloveOn COATS nitrile gloves with colloidal oatmeal provide an innovative solution to help nurses protect their hands while ensuring comfort and skin health. By choosing the right gloves, nurses can continue to provide high-quality care without compromising their own well-being.
For more information on glove and hand hygiene compliance for healthcare workers click here
Improvement in Skin Hydration
Reduction in Water Evaporation
Improvement or Lack of Worsening of Skin Conditions
