Look for gowns made from polyethylene for maximum protection
When selecting isolation gowns for your healthcare facility, one of the most important factors to consider is the material used. Gowns made from polyethylene offer superior barrier protection compared to other common materials like polypropylene or spunbond-meltblown fabrics. Polyethylene films tend to be thicker and less porous, preventing potential strike-through and contamination. They are also more resistant to abrasion and tearing, even when wet, ensuring the integrity of the gown is maintained during use.
Polyethylene isolation gowns typically achieve an AAMI level 3 rating or higher, indicating moderate to high levels of exposure. The polyethylene forms an effective barrier against fluids and microorganisms when properly worn. This gives both healthcare workers and patients greater peace of mind.
Some key benefits provided by polyethylene isolation gowns:
With proper use, quality polyethylene isolation gowns provide maximal barrier protection for healthcare staff. The improved fluid resistance and durability also increase the level of safety for patients during exams or procedures. Be sure to verify that any gowns under consideration are FDA cleared and meet the latest guidelines and standards. Polyethylene isolation gowns check all the boxes for optimal protection and comfort in healthcare settings.
Ensure the gowns have long sleeves and elastic cuffs for comfort and coverage
When evaluating isolation gown options, an important factor is making sure the gowns have adequately long sleeves with elastic cuffs. This design provides better comfort, fit, and coverage for the wearer.
Long sleeves that extend well past the wrists are essential to reduce skin exposure and prevent sleeves from riding up. Having sufficient sleeve length helps ensure the arms are properly covered even during repetitive motions like reaching, bending or extended arm maneuvers. This minimizes risks of skin contact or clothing exposure.
Elastic cuffs are also a key feature for optimal sleeve coverage and fit. The elastic helps create a snug fit around the wrists without being overly tight or restrictive. This prevents sleeves from sliding back and exposing skin on the arms and wrists during use.
The elastic cuff also facilitates putting on gloves and pulling gloves over the sleeve when donning PPE. This ensures the gown sleeve remains securely tucked under gloves with no gaps that could allow contact or infiltration.
Some other benefits provided by long sleeves and elastic cuffs:
When selecting isolation gowns, examine the sleeve length and cuff design closely. Check that the sleeves extend well past the wrists and are not too short. Make sure elastic cuffs are included to create a snug and tailored fit.
With adequate sleeve length and elastic cuffs, healthcare personnel can perform tasks comfortably and safely knowing their arms are properly guarded from exposure. This gives staff confidence the gown sleeves will stay securely in place and out of the way during patient care and procedures.
Select disposable gowns for convenience
When purchasing isolation gowns, healthcare facilities should consider opting for disposable gowns for added convenience and infection control. Disposable gowns offer a number of advantages over reusable cloth gowns.
The main benefit of disposable isolation gowns is the ease of use. Disposable gowns can simply be worn once and discarded after use. This eliminates the need for laundering and handling contaminated reusable gowns. It reduces the risk of improper laundry procedures spreading pathogens.
Disposable gowns also prevent cross-contamination between patients. A fresh sterile gown is used for each encounter, minimizing transmission of microbes between patients via the gown material. This helps improve overall infection prevention.
Some other key advantages of disposable isolation gowns:
Disposable isolation gowns provide a great option to balance convenience, cost, and safety. They reduce handling of soiled reusable gowns and ensure a new sterile product is used for every patient interaction. This improves compliance with best practices for both glove changes and hand hygiene.
When selecting isolation gowns, the disposable option is highly recommended for most healthcare settings. The benefits of enhanced convenience and infection control make the switch from reusable gowns an easy decision. Be sure to work with supply partners that can provide disposable gowns that still offer high quality construction and protective properties.
Opt for gowns with thumb loops to keep sleeves from riding up
When evaluating isolation gown options, an important feature to look for is thumb loops to secure the sleeves. Gowns with thumb loops integrated into the cuffs provide an extra measure of protection and coverage for healthcare staff.
The thumb loops are designed to loop over the thumbs and act as an anchor to keep gown sleeves pulled down and in place. This prevents the sleeves from sliding back and exposing the wrists or forearms during procedures or tasks.
Without thumb loops, gown sleeves tend to ride up as the wearer reaches and moves their arms. This allows gaps for skin exposure and potential contamination of clothing underneath. Thumb loops minimize this problem by keeping the sleeves firmly in place regardless of arm position.
Some key benefits thumb loop cuffs provide:
The thumb loops are made of soft flexible material so they stay in position but don’t constrict movement. This allows normal dexterity and range of motion during procedures.
When inspecting isolation gown options, look for gowns that incorporate thumb loops into the cuff design. This goes a long way in avoiding nuisance issues of sleeves riding up. Staff can stay focused on patient care without constantly having to readjust loose sleeves. It also promotes compliance by ensuring sleeves remain properly in place and minimizing skin exposure risks.
Look for gowns with generous sizing for easy wear over clothes
When selecting isolation gowns for your medical facility, it’s important to choose options that offer generous, roomy sizing. Gowns with larger dimensions make it easier to wear the gown comfortably over regular clothes or uniforms.
A common problem with gowns is sizing that runs small or fits tightly. This causes the gown to feel constricting, especially when worn on top of personal clothing items. Generous sizing provides more space to move and breathe.
Looser, roomier gowns reduce feelings of restriction or confinement when worn for extended periods. The extra room also allows for easier donning and doffing of the gown without catching or binding.
Some key benefits of generous gown sizing:
When evaluating isolation gown options, be sure to assess the sizing and dimensions. Look for gowns described as having generous, loose, or roomy fits. Request sizing samples if needed to test the fit over clothes.
Choosing well-fitting isolation gowns makes a big difference in comfort and range of motion. Healthcare staff will appreciate the breathability and flexibility of generously sized gowns during long shifts. This also encourages compliance by reducing feelings of restriction or confinement.
Choose lightweight gowns to reduce heat and fatigue
When selecting isolation gowns, it is important to opt for lightweight materials and construction to help minimize heat buildup and fatigue. Extended wear of gowns can cause wearers to overheat, especially for procedures that require a lot of movement or take place in warmer rooms.
Polyethylene and other thin plastic films tend to be lighter and cooler than fabrics like polyester or cotton. Even though plastic is impervious to fluids, it still allows for air flow that enables some heat dissipation.
Lighter materials also simply weigh less on the body over long periods. This reduces general fatigue that can set in from wearing heavy protective apparel. It also allows freer movement since the gown isn’t constantly pulling or restricted.
Some other advantages of lightweight isolation gowns:
When evaluating options, compare the relative weights and materials used in construction. Polyethylene or polypropylene tend to be lighter than fabrics. Also look for advertised features like breathable fabrics or moisture wicking.
Opting for lightweight isolation gowns goes a long way in reducing fatigue and heat during continuous wear. Staff will feel less restricted and more focused on providing care rather than being distracted by heavy, hot gowns. Just be sure reduced weight doesn’t sacrifice protective qualities.
Prioritize breathable materials like polyethylene to stay cool
When selecting isolation gowns, an important factor to consider is breathability of the material. Opting for gowns made of breathable fabrics or films can help keep wearers more cool and comfortable.
Polyethylene is a common material used for disposable gowns that offers a high level of breathability. Although impervious to fluids, polyethylene still allows for air circulation. This enables some dissipation of heat and moisture vapor from underneath the gown.
Other materials like polypropylene and some spunbond-meltblown fabrics also tend to be more breathable than options such as cotton or polyester. This breathability results from the inherent porous quality of their production methods.
Some benefits that breathable materials offer:
When evaluating isolation gowns, focus on manufacturers that use polyethylene, polypropylene, or advanced breathable synthetics. Compare the breathability ratings of any test data.
Prioritizing gowns made with breathable materials can vastly improve comfort for healthcare staff. This not only reduces fatigue but also improves safety by discouraging gown removal due to heat exhaustion. With better breathability, staff can operate at their best.
Get gowns with knit cuffs for stretch and flexibility
When evaluating isolation gown options, look for designs with knit cuffs rather than rigid elastic bands. Gowns with knit cuffs provide more stretch and flexibility for better fit and mobility.
Knit cuffs are made from fabric such as spandex or lycra knitted tightly into a cuff shape. This allows the cuff to stretch and conform more naturally to the wrist compared to basic elastic bands.
The stretchy quality also facilitates pulling the cuffs up over hands when donning the gown. This provides a smooth, tailored fit.
Knit cuffs move more freely with the wrist during tasks requiring dexterity or extended motions. The stretch accommodates the contours and motions of the wrist better than restrictive elastic.
Some benefits of isolation gowns with knit cuffs:
Knit cuffs strike the right balance between a secure conforming fit and free range of motion. This improves comfort while also keeping the sleeves properly in place.
When selecting isolation gowns, inspect the cuff design closely and look for knit or stretch fabric composition. Knit cuffs enhance flexibility and mobility for improved safety and compliance.
Look for extra strong seam construction for durability
When evaluating disposable isolation gowns, check that the gowns employ reinforced seams and stitching to improve durability and longevity of use. Gowns with enhanced seam strength are less likely to rip or tear prematurely.
Disposable gowns need seams and hems that can withstand the rigors of stressful use in healthcare settings. Reinforced stitches and multiple seam lines help prevent seam splits that would compromise the protective barrier.
Key areas that require reinforced seams are the cuffs, neckline, shoulders, and gown ties. These are common failure points for thinner seams under the stress of motions and activity.
Some hallmarks of gowns with reinforced seams:
Reinforced seams stand up to the flexing and twisting inherent in healthcare procedures. They reduce the likelihood of sudden seam failures that expose skin or undergarments. This improves overall barrier protection.
When selecting isolation gowns, examine the sewing closely, especially in high-stress areas. Look for evidence of reinforced stitches, double-sewn seams, thicker threads, and seam banding. This attention to seam durability improves gown resilience.
Select gowns treated with alcohol repellency for added fluid resistance
When choosing isolation gowns, opt for options treated with alcohol-repellent chemicals to improve impermeability against certain hazardous liquids. Gowns with alcohol-repellent properties provide an added measure of protection.
Many gowns are inherently resistant to water-based fluids, but some chemicals like alcohols can permeate through the material. An alcohol-repellent finish helps prevent absorption and strike-through.
This treatment involves adding chemicals like fluoropolymers during manufacturing. They form a protective barrier that causes alcohol droplets to bead up on the surface rather than soak in.
Some key benefits this alcohol resistance offers:
Alcohol-repellent gowns are recommended as a prudent precaution for procedures involving chemicals like ethanol, isopropanol, or methanol. They provide peace of mind knowing you have an additional permeability barrier in place.
When selecting isolation gowns, consider options labeled as alcohol-repellent or chemically resistant. For optimal protection, this chemical treatment can make a key difference in barrier performance.
Choose gowns with high neck and back closure for optimal coverage
When evaluating isolation gowns, optimal coverage and protection are provided by gowns designed with both high necks and fully closed backs. This styling eliminates potential skin exposure in vulnerable areas.
A high neck that closes up to the chin ensures no gap exists between the neckline and mask that could lead to contamination. Standard open necks allow liquids to enter inside the gown if splashing occurs.
Likewise, a fully closed gown back reduces the chances of fluids rolling under the gown across the back. Open backs permit inward contamination if the wearer leans against a surface or fluid is splashed from behind.
Some key advantages of high necks and closed backs:
Proper isolation gown usage already minimizes back and neck exposure. But the high neck and enclosed back design adds an extra safeguard in the event of unanticipated risks or accidents.
When selecting gowns, the optimal level of barrier protection is provided by full back closure and high necks. Prioritize options with these enhanced coverage features for critical procedures.
Opt for gowns with easy open back closure for quick wear and removal
When choosing isolation gowns, look for options with back closures designed for quick and easy wearing and removal. This allows fast donning and doffing while still keeping the back fully enclosed.
Easy access gown backs utilize features like Velcro, snaps, or zippers. These allow one-handed opening and closing without the need for ties. This facilitates quick securing in back without assistance.
Easy open closures are important for both putting on and taking off gowns efficiently. Complicated ties or multiple snap closures take extra time and coordination. Simple Velcro strips provide fast access.
Some benefits of easy-access back closures:
Quick and easy back closures strike an ideal balance between fast access and secure coverage. This supports efficient gown changes between patients or procedures to save time.
When selecting isolation gowns, look for ones with Velcro, long zippers, or minimal snaps in back. This small detail makes a big difference in quick changes and compliance.
Get AAMI level 3 or 4 rated gowns for maximal protection
When choosing isolation gowns, it is critical to select options that meet AAMI PB70 standard levels 3 or 4. These ratings designate the highest fluid barrier protection according to industry testing.
The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) sets criteria for classifying protective apparel based on liquid barrier performance. Levels 1 and 2 provide minimal protection while 3 and 4 represent moderate and high barriers.
Gowns meeting AAMI level 3 or 4 standards have undergone testing to verify their resistance. They effectively shield against the penetration of bodily fluids or other hazardous liquids.
Some key traits of level 3/4 rated isolation gowns:
Opting for AAMI level 3 or 4 gowns ensures you are getting maximum possible barrier protection. The higher ratings give confidence in the gowns’ ability to protect in high-fluid cases.
Be sure to verify the specific AAMI rating level on any isolation gowns you procure. Settlement for anything less than a level 3 means compromising on proven fluid resistance and barrier integrity.
Look for FDA cleared gowns that meet guidelines and standards
When selecting isolation gowns, it’s crucial to choose options that are FDA cleared to ensure they meet federal guidelines and standards. The FDA regulates gowns as medical devices, requiring evidence of testing and quality control.
FDA clearance means the gown models have been reviewed by the FDA and deemed acceptable for marketing based on submitted performance data. Manufacturers have to demonstrate the gowns meet fluid resistance, quality control, labeling, and other specifications.
Gowns without FDA clearance may lack verifiable testing to confirm they work as expected. The FDA clearance provides assurance gowns have gone through validation.
Some key benefits FDA cleared gowns offer:
The FDA clearance process sets a floor for gown performance and manufacturing quality. It weeds out gowns unable to substantiate their marketing assertions.
When procuring isolation gowns, be absolutely sure to verify FDA clearance. This ensures your organization and staff are getting gowns that meet national benchmarks for quality and effectiveness.
Work with a trusted supplier that can provide clinical evidence and testing data
When selecting isolation gowns, it’s highly recommended to work with a reputable supplier that can furnish supporting clinical evidence and testing documentation. This helps validate the protective qualities of the gowns.
Trustworthy gown suppliers should be able to provide data like:
Reputable suppliers have invested in thoroughly vetting and validating their products. They should welcome inquiries for data to back up claims of clinical utility and safety.
Wary of vendors who make bold assertions without furnishing ample evidence to support them. Legitimate suppliers will be eager to demonstrate the science behind their products.
Vetting isolation gown suppliers upfront ensures you select options clinically shown to deliver the promised protection. Seek out partners willing to provide transparency and share testing documentation to help guide your purchasing.