Different types of surgical gown

The healthcare world highly relies on surgical gowns. They also help protect doctors, nurses and other health care workers during surgery. These gowns, in addition, help keep germs from passing from one patient to another. Surgical gowns come in different types and each type has its own additional features. As each provides protection in different ways and designed for different environments within the health facility.

What Are the Two Primaries Types of Surgical Gowns?

We can get into the details about surgical gowns by specifically examining two types of surgical gowns: disposable and reusable.

Disposable gowns are made from materials that cannot be reused. Such gowns are typically produced using thin, nonwoven fabrics, which are lightweight and easy to use. These gowns are thrown away by a healthcare worker after the surgery. That's a good thing because that helps prevent germs from spreading from one person to another.

We have the reusable gowns. These gowns use stronger materials such as cotton or polyester. The advantage of reusable and sustainable gowns is that they can be washed and worn several times. But they have to be adequately cleaned and cared for to ensure they remain safe and effective for future use. Some gowns are considered sterile, meaning they are very clean and safe to use in surgery. Other gowns are non-sterile — they are not as clean.

Surgical Gown: How Do You Choose the Right One?

Select the correct surgical gown according to the type of surgery to be performed. Needs may vary according to procedures. Those surgeries in which lots of fluids are expected, such as blood or body fluids, use special gowns that have additional protection, which can be increased by a waterproof limit. Gowns are specially prepared for such fluid flow not to occur and thereby avoid exposure to the individual.

The gowns should be safe and also must meet the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials and the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation. This would allow the gowns to provide adequate protection throughout surgical procedures.

Disposable vs. Reusable Gowns: What's the Difference?

Let's discuss disposable versus reusable gowns further. Disposable gowns, as the name directs, are single-use. They are typically less comfortable and less durable than reusable gowns, but they're very convenient. Because they are discarded after a single use, disposable gowns are thought to minimize the risk of germs spreading from one patient to another. It is especially important in a bustling hospital or clinic with multiple patients being seen each day.

Reusable gowns, by contrast, can be washed, repaired and reused. They may be more comfortable and durable than disposable gowns. But it is worth noting that reusable gowns need to be cleaned and managed properly. Healthcare facilities must adhere to strict protocols to ensure that these gowns can be safely reused. That includes washing the gowns at high temperatures, and storing them in a clean location.

“What Are Sterile and Non-Sterile Gowns?

This difference also applies to surgical gowns – there are sterile and non-sterile gowns. Sterile surgical gowns are wrapped and prepared in a way that ensures they stay extremely clean. These are used over surgical procedures to protect patients from germs and bacteria. Sterile gowns are considered operating-room garments and have good compatibility with other sterile goods, such as gloves, masks and surgical drapes.

Non-sterile gowns are relatively filthy. They are also commonly used in less formal settings—for example, in outpatient clinics or dental offices. Even though non-sterile gowns can provide protection, the differences in safety between non-sterile and sterile gowns should be remembered. Which type of gown is used depends on the particular needs of the procedure and the specific infection control policies of an individual institution.

Role of Quality in Surgical Gown Use

Finally, the quality of the surgical gowns is something of utmost consideration. How safe or quality the gowns are depends on the way they will be used and the risk in each situation. Surgical gowns are graded for fluid resistance, strength and antistatic treatment.

For sure, some healthcare facilities have their own exclusive gowning requirements. Thus, it is important to buy only legitimate and competent surgical gowns suppliers. It ensures that the gowns meet the safety standards and will protect both healthcare workers and patients from possible outcomes during procedures.

In a nutshell, selecting the best surgical gowns requires much time. This option prevents with germs from spreading and keeps others safe. The decision to use disposable vs reusable gowns clearly relates to the surgery type and the amount of fluid to be encountered. Keeping the differences between sterile and non-sterile gowns in mind and adhering to quality and safety standards will help keep both medical staff and their patients safe. A reliable distributor, like Topmed, offers a range of surgical gowns to meet the different needs of surgery, ensuring that your facility is always ready to care for patients efficiently.