What type of gloves should be used when handling blood or potentially infectious materials?

When handling blood or potentially infectious materials, the use of disposable nitrile or latex gloves is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing contamination. These types of gloves provide an effective barrier against pathogens, ensuring that healthcare workers are protected while performing tasks that could expose them to bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials.

Nitrile gloves are often preferred due to their resistance to punctures and tears, as well as being latex-free, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions in both patients and healthcare providers. Latex gloves also offer a high level of protection but may be unsuitable for individuals with latex allergies.

The choice of disposable options is important as they are designed for single use, which minimizes the risk of cross-contamination. Unlike reusable gloves or cloth options, which can retain pathogens even after cleaning, disposable gloves are discarded after each use to ensure maximum hygiene and safety for both patients and healthcare workers. This practice aligns with standard infection control protocols, thereby enhancing safety in healthcare environments.