Importance of Wearing a Hospital Gown:
Medical gowns are personal protective equipment necessary in healthcare settings to prevent the transmission of infections. Researchers classify them into four categories, depending on the level of protection they provide. Gowns with a low level of protection, for example, are suitable for low-risk healthcare interactions, such as patient visits. In contrast, gowns with a high level of protection are best suited for professionals at significant risk of contact with body fluids, such as during invasive procedures.
Healthcare professionals should cover exposed body parts, such as their arms, when handling patients and performing surgeries, according to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) requirements. That means that healthcare professionals should wear appropriate protective gear to prepare for contact with body fluids, blood, excretions, and secretions.
As a result, the quality criteria for the classification of medical gowns are subject to rigorous scrutiny by regulatory agencies. Quality hospital gowns are key to reducing occupational health and safety risks in the following ways, depending on the application;
Different Types Of Hospital Gowns
Patients and medical professionals need certain types of gown dependent on their workplace environment and extent of exposure to harm. Therefore, there are two types of gowns;
- Patient gowns
- Surgical gowns
However, all high-quality medical gowns are classified into four tiers and serve the following needs;
Level 1 Hospital Gowns
Level 1 hospital gowns are intended for minimal-risk medical procedures such as isolation, clinical visits, and basic treatment. They are comfortable, breathable, and ultra-lightweight to serve for extended periods.
Level 2 Hospital Gowns
These hospital gowns suit low-risk situations, such as suturing, blood collection, pathology, or ICU work. They provide a higher level of protection than Level 1 gowns because they are fluid-repellent. Medical personnel perform two tests to ensure that these gowns do not penetrate or soak through.
Level 3 Hospital Gowns
Level 3 hospital gowns are ideal for moderately serious medical procedures such as placing an IV (intravenous) line and drawing arterial blood. Some of these medical gowns are made of reinforced material to increase safety.
Level 4 Hospital gown
Level 4 hospital gowns are the most protective gowns available and are applicable in high-risk scenarios, such as during extensive surgical procedures. They have the highest resistance to bacterial infection and spread and are available in various colors and fabrics, but their design is uniform. Hospital gowns have short sleeves and extend to the thighs. The open back is usually closed with twill tape.
That said, hospital gowns apply in various environments subject to their intended use. These include
Gowns For Surgical Procedures
Surgical gowns are crucial in ensuring the safety of patients and medical staff during surgical procedures. They are classified as medical devices requiring 501(k) notification under FDA standards. The primary function of a surgical gown is to prevent the transmission of pathogens, body fluids, or microorganisms from one person to another. They protect key areas of the body, such as the shoulders, arms, wrists, and knees. Surgical gowns are essential regardless of the level of risk. Because they are the outermost garment during surgery, these gowns must be of excellent quality to reduce the risk of infection or other potential complications. They are often lightweight to provide optimal comfort.
Gowns For Isolation
Isolation gowns for hospitals are necessary for moderate to heavy contamination levels. They are essential in situations where important vital areas are affected during operations. Further, they comply with FDA regulations as Class II medical devices, requiring 501(k) notification like regular gowns. The seams of isolation gowns provide a similar level of fluid shielding as any other garment.
Moreover, isolation gowns are often breathable and lightweight, making them suitable for surgical procedures. Polypropylene makes these gowns impervious to soaking. The components required to make isolation gowns provide varying degrees of protection against physiological fluids, such as blood, generated during medical procedures. Isolation gowns have been shown to help reduce infections in healthcare facilities.
Gowns For Non-Surgical Procedures
Non-surgical hospital gowns are similar to isolation and surgical gowns. However, they are not suitable for medical procedures. Because they are Class I medical devices, they do not undergo tests before deployment. Instead, they perform the same functions as traditional hospital gowns but offer less protection.
Therefore, they are suitable for non-invasive treatments and low-risk medical situations where infections are unlikely. Non-surgical hospital gowns are common in laboratory settings, despite their extensive use in the medical industry.
Protective suits/Coveralls
Physicians and other medical personnel must take significant steps to avoid disease transmission. Note that infections such as HIV, Ebola, or hepatitis can be easily transmitted through body fluids during surgical procedures. Coverall hospital gowns, fortunately, provide greater coverage and protect the user's body from direct contact with fluids. The material of the coveralls is usually plastic or waterproof clothing.
Safety Requirements
Hospital gowns are critical to staff and patient safety, so there are strict criteria for the appropriateness of each type. Bacteria and dangerous viruses can survive on personal protective equipment depending on the fabric, moisture, and type of pathogen. Studies have shown that the manufacturing material affects the infection cycle of bacteria and viruses.
Therefore, healthcare professionals and manufacturers rely on specific fabrics and care requirements to control the transmission of viruses and bacteria.
Sourcing Medical Gowns Of The Highest Quality?
Are you looking to purchase hospital gowns for your healthcare facility? It's important to work with a reputable supplier such as Nobles Health Care Product Solutions to ensure high quality. Medical gowns should be scientifically certified by recognized regulatory bodies. You should also ensure that your potential supplier's products suit the task. Using the wrong gown can put you at risk for injury or disease transmission.
Nobles Health Care Product Solutions offers high-quality medical gowns and excellent customer service. We're here for you anytime you need us, whether you’re purchasing products for in-house uses or supplying treatment centers. Our medical apparel is ideal for doctors, nurses, and staff. For more information about our products or advice on your requirements, please visit our website at https://nobleshealthcare.com/collections/hospital-gowns or call us now. Our goods are exactly what you need, whenever necessary, on schedule, and within your budget.
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Nobles Health Care Product Solutions,
1152 E 13th St Brooklyn NY 11230,
917-757-6350