Donning and Doffing Sterile Gloves

Introduction

This tutorial provides a detailed guide on the proper technique for donning (putting on) and doffing (removing) sterile gloves. Mastering these techniques is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing infection in various settings, particularly in healthcare and therapy environments.

Step 1: Preparing for Donning Gloves

• Wash Your Hands: Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Gather Your Supplies: Ensure you have a pair of sterile gloves ready and any necessary equipment nearby to minimize movement after gloving.
• Check for Damage: Inspect the glove package for any tears or damage before opening.

Step 2: Donning Sterile Gloves

• Open the Glove Package: Carefully peel back the edges of the glove package without touching the inside.
• Position Your Hands:
  • With your dominant hand, grasp the cuff of the glove for your non-dominant hand.
  • Slide your non-dominant hand into the glove, ensuring you do not touch the outside of the glove.
• Don the Second Glove:
  • With your gloved non-dominant hand, grasp the cuff of the gloved dominant hand, ensuring you only touch the inside.
  • Slide your dominant hand into the glove, adjusting both gloves as necessary to ensure a snug fit.

Step 3: Adjusting the Gloves

• Ensure Proper Fit: Adjust the gloves to make sure they cover your wrists and fit snugly without being too tight.
• Avoid Touching Non-Sterile Surfaces: Be cautious not to touch anything that is not sterile, including your face or clothing.

Step 4: Doffing Sterile Gloves

• Prepare to Remove: Before doffing, ensure that you have a waste receptacle nearby for disposing of the gloves.
• Pinch and Pull:
  • With one gloved hand, pinch the opposite glove near the wrist without touching the skin.
  • Pull the glove off inside out, so that the contaminated surface is tucked away.
• Remove the Second Glove:
  • Hold the removed glove in the remaining gloved hand and slide your fingers under the cuff of the second glove.
  • Pull off the second glove, again ensuring it is inside out and encasing the first glove.

Step 5: Dispose of Gloves

• Proper Disposal: Place the gloves in the designated waste receptacle immediately after removing them.
• Wash Your Hands Again: After doffing the gloves, wash your hands thoroughly or use hand sanitizer to ensure cleanliness.

Conclusion

Properly donning and doffing sterile gloves is crucial for infection control in healthcare settings. Always remember to follow the steps meticulously to maintain sterility and hygiene. Regular practice will help you become proficient in these techniques, ensuring safety for both yourself and your patients.