Sterile surgical gloves are available in NRL as well as the other synthetic gloves that are listed above, just at a higher cost. Powders Since gloves were introduced, the search has continued for a dry lubricant that would make donning easier, absorb perspiration, and avoid friction. Early agents, from club moss to talc, did all the above but contaminated the environment with particulate matter and caused post-operative complications. Cornstarch is the most common powder for both latex and synthetic examination gloves. Since exam gloves are not sterilized like surgical gloves, the cross-linking in the cornstarch particles does not break down and, thus, is far less absorbable than the powder on surgical gloves.
All environments including the surgical arena are at risk when powder is present.
Today, the primary concern of powder is the potential allergen, as in latex proteins or chemicals, used in NRL and synthetic glove manufacturing. These proteins attach themselves to the powder and are aerosolized on donning or removal. Hospitals are addressing these issues by implementing latex-safe zones through multidisciplinary committees. Responsibilities of this committee will include the coordination of system-wide efforts. Policy and procedures, standards of care, protocols, or guidelines will be formulated and reviewed through this central body of knowledge.