Although the surgeon/patient gown may be considered additional gear for healthcare professionals, the way you choose and use this apparel is extremely important to safety and professional performance in healthcare environments.
The Gowns are required at any time you have close contact with patients, materials, or equipment that may lead to the contamination of skin, uniforms, or other clothing by infectious agents, bodily liquid, or substances. As a rule, gowns are used upon entering the room of patients or operation theatres.
- The plastic Gowns are designed to be disposable for single use. It is worn to protect skin and clothing possible splashing or sprays of blood, or bodily substances.
- The full body Gown or the gowns with different lengths of sleeves depending on the procedure being undertaken.
- Pre-packed, sterile Gowns are required for aseptic cases.
How to choose and how to wear Gowns
- Three main factors to consider in picking the best gown for your needs:
- the volume of body substances or liquid likely to be encountered
- the extent and type of exposure to blood, and body substance
- the type and route of transmission of infectious agents
- When you wear a fluid-resistant, full-body gown, you always have to wear it in combination with gloves and another PPE indicated.
- Remove gowns before leaving the patient-care areas to prevent any possible contamination.
- The gears have to be changed between individual patients.
- When removing them, you have to remove them in a manner to prevent any contamination of clothing or skin: the outer ‘contaminated’ side of the gown has to be turned inward and rolled into a bundle, and then discarded in a designated area.
- The new gowns have to be stored in clean, dry, and contamination-free areas.