Wearing Cotton-polyester Gloves under Surgical Latex Gloves to Improve the Symptoms of Hand Dermatitis in Operating Room Staffa

Abstract

Background: Hand dermatitis is a group of diseases that result in inflammation of the skin in the area of the hand. The prevalence of latex allergies has been increasing in recent years, one of the reasons being the use of latex gloves to maintain safety. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of wearing cotton-polyester gloves under surgical latex gloves to improve the symptoms. Methods: This study is a randomized controlled clinical trial performed in Alzahra and Ayatollah Kashani hospitals in Isfahan. The statistical population consisted of the staff of the surgery room. Sampling was done by the census from October 2018 to March 2019. Cotton-polyester gloves (weight between 5-10 grams, 50 cotton and 50 polyester) are soft and flexible and easily absorb the sweat- under latex gloves. Also, it can be re-sterilized with ethylene oxide. In rupture of surgical gloves due to strong and integrated stitching, the cotton-polyester gloves prevent hand burns with electrocautery or damage by sharp objects. These gloves were distributed and used among the samples for 6 months. Results: Data were analyzed based on symptoms of erythema, appearance, economic burden, and disruption in daily life; there was a significant relationship between lack of using cottonpolyester gloves under the surgical gloves compared to when using them (P<0.01). However, there was no significant relationship between pain and disorder in social relations (P>0.01). Conclusion: Using cotton-polyester gloves under surgical latex gloves can improve the symptoms of dermatitis. On the other hand, the use of these gloves will not interfere with the function of the hands. © Journal of Health Sciences and Surveillance System.All right reserved.