The gloves are off says the FDA as it considers a ban on powdered medical gloves
Why does the FDA want to ban powdered gloves?
It’s all about reactions. While powdered medical gloves may be easier to get on and off, their health risks are too great, says the FDA.
In its Medical Glove Powder Report, the FDA states: “Glove powder on medical gloves can enhance foreign body reactions, increase infections and act as a carrier of natural latex allergens”.
The use of powder-free, reduced protein content latex gloves has therefore been recommended.
The ban covers powdered gloves used by surgeons and for examinations. It doesn’t include non-powdered gloves – eg those used by surgeons, radiographers of for examinations
What is the powder?
Cornstarch. The substance was introduced as a replacement for other substances such as talc which was found to cause inflammation.
How dangerous is the powder?
As well as causing allergic and breathing reactions, powdered medical gloves can irritate and inflame patients’ wounds.
Commenting in Stat, Dr Jeffrey Shuren, head of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said: “This ban is about protecting patients and health care professionals from a danger they might not even be aware of…We take bans very seriously and only take this action when we feel it’s necessary to protect the public health.”
What’s the solution?
According to the FDA: “There are alternatives to dusting powder for lubricating natural rubber latex surfaces. The most common method is chlorination. Chlorine reacts with the natural rubber latex surface to reduce the natural tackiness, eliminating the need for adding dusting powder. The extra washing performed during the chlorination process provides an added benefit by also greatly reducing the level of soluble natural latex proteins. However, chlorination affects some of the mechanical and physical properties. Gloves made from alternative materials, not containing natural allergens, are available, but none possess the unique mix of properties offered by natural rubber latex.”
FDA is accepting comments on this proposal until June 20, 2016.