One year ago, in December 2016, the Food and Drug Administration banned the sale or use of powdered gloves in the United States. While this decision was not the only medical device banned by the FDA (they also banned prosthetic hair fibers in 1983), it was somewhat historic in the fact that powdered gloves are only the second device to be banned in the agency’s history.

The background of the ban
It took approximately nine months to take the powdered glove ban from suggestion to official. During that time, the FDA heard many reasons why powdered gloves should be taken off the market in America. Fine powder in the gloves was meant to make the gloves slide on easily and without ripping. However, that fine powder was also becoming airborne and causing some allergic reactions for patients across the country.

Beyond the allergy concerns, powdered gloves usage has also been linked to increased risk of wound inflammation in patients. Further, powdered glove use has been shown to increase the risk of scar tissue bands between organs after surgery.

There was certainly worry from the medical field after the ban was announced. Most were worried about a glove shortage, while others worried that gloves would be more difficult to get on and off in a timely manner. In an industry where every second counts, slipping on a glove can mean life and death.

One year later

Fortunately, medical technology has allowed for practitioners to find powder-free gloves that are still easy to get on and off. Thanks to polymers and other lining in a variety of glove material options, the powder that was causing medical concerns is no longer a concern to patients or to practitioners.

If you are looking for gloves that meet the FDA regulation, and that your students can use without fear of pulling or tearing, take a look at the offerings we have at Medical Shipment. Each of our glove options meet all FDA requirements and are available in a variety of sizes, materials, and prices.

Give us a call to talk more about your specific classroom or clinical needs; we are happy to help!