MSS Gloves & Masks

Yes, there are three unique levels of protection with ASTM-rated medical masks. Level 1 masks have the lowest barrier of protection, while Level 3 masks have the highest barrier of protection. For greater clarity on the differences, refer to the information in the charts below:

Generally, there are three things you should look for to ensure your mask fits correctly:

1. The aluminum nose piece is at the top,
2. The white (or smoothest side) is on the inside against the wearer’s skin—the colour always faces out,
3. The pleats fall downwards and away from the nose (called a “waterfall” pleat).

A mask is only as effective as its fit. There should be no gaps along the side, around the nose or under the chin that would allow air and droplets to bypass the filter medium. The mask should always be properly adjusted to fully cover both the mouth and nose. A well-fitting mask stays in place over the nose and cheeks and even a regular mask will prevent fogging of eyeglasses if it fits properly. Masks should not be worn underneath the nose or dangling around the neck – they should either be fully on, or disposed of.

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PRIMED’s medical examination gloves are “single-use” (also known asdisposable) and should be changed or disposed of at the completion of thecurrent task. In addition, health care practitioners should change exam gloves:

• When consulting or treating a new or different patient;
• When moving between a contaminated part of the body to another part ofthe body or work environment that may be at higher risk from crosscontamination (e.g. broken skin, mucous membranes etc.)
• If any holes, rips, tears or punctures are observed;
• Every 20 minutes;
• If your gloves are grossly contaminated.

Choosing the proper size is paramount when ensuring a good fit for your medical examination gloves. There are two keys to ensuring a proper fit with medical exam gloves;

• Picking the correct size; and
• Donning the glove properly.

Unfortunately picking the size of glove is somewhat of a trial and error process. For example, in general you might find you are a medium (or a small, or large etc.). The feel and fit of a glove changes slightly depending on specific glove lines and the thickness of the material. As such, when trying on an exam glove ask yourself the following questions.

Is the glove too tight?

Does your examination glove fatigue your hand? Do you feel resistance when you move your fingers? If so, consider a larger glove. In addition to being more comfortable, a larger glove will experience less stress on the material, which may reduce the risk of tears.

Is the glove too loose?

Does the glove feel loose? Is it tough to grip objects? If so, consider a smaller glove, as excess material may increase the risk of tears or punctures due to its nagging on other objects.

Does the glove fit correctly?

Is the glove comfortable to wear for extended periods? Does it feel like a second skin or like it is not even there? If so, you have found the right glove. All PrimaTouch® Exam Gloves are available in five sizes from extra small through to extra large to ensure the best possible fit for most hand sizes and shapes.

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Donning your glove properly will help to ensure your gloves are fitting properly. Please check the information for use page for recommendation on properly donning examination gloves.

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