According to the Freedonia industry-study

According to the Freedonia industry study, global demand for medical disposables is expected to grow 5.5% annually and reach US$169 billion by 2014. Wound care products are expected to remain the most in demand. Demand is expected to grow 4.6% annually and reach $30 billion by 2014. In addition, global demand for nonwoven medical disposables is expected to grow 4.4% annually and reach US$25 billion by 2014.

Most medical disposables have a medium to long-term shelf life. These products are usually designed for short-term or one-time use. Some common disposable medical products include examination gloves, shoe covers, surgical drapes, surgical gowns, lab coats, isolation gowns, needles, syringes, as well as custom kits and trays, face masks, goggles, cotton swabs, and sterile drapes.

Medical Disposables: Various types of disposable gloves

Medical disposables are fast becoming the first choice of every healthcare professional. More and more doctors are choosing disposable medical supplies to protect themselves and their patients from deadly infectious diseases and other medical complications.

One of the most common types of disposables used by doctors are medical gloves. They are mainly used during examinations and surgical interventions. Their primary function is to prevent the transmission of blood, body fluids, highly contagious pathogens, toxic materials, and other contaminants.

Medical gloves are either powdered or unpowdered. Powdered gloves use cornstarch for lubrication, making them fairly easy to don. However, such gloves are not typically used during surgical or other sensitive procedures because cornstarch gets into the tissues and hinders the healing process. Medical gloves are made from different types of polymers, including:

latex gloves

Latex medical gloves are very elastic, thick and protective. These gloves offer the wearer better precision, fine control and a high level of touch sensitivity. However, latex gloves can cause allergies in some people.

Nitrile gloves

Disposable nitrile gloves are a great alternative for healthcare professionals allergic to latex. These gloves are known for their high level of comfort, puncture resistance and resistance to multiple chemicals. In addition to medical professionals, nitrile gloves are also used by chemical professionals, tattoo artists and gardeners.

vinyl gloves

These gloves are made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC. Vinyl gloves are known for their non-reactive properties. These gloves also have several non-medical uses. They are used by painters, cleaners and professionals in the hospitality industry.