Use of gloves among dermatologists

Area of Science:

• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Dermatologic Surgery Practices
• Occupational Health and Safety

Background:

• Rubber or latex surgeon's gloves are known to prevent or reduce hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission.
• Despite this evidence, non-compliance with glove use in surgical procedures persists among healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of glove usage among dermatologists during surgical procedures.
• To identify potential barriers or reasons for non-adherence to recommended glove use in dermatologic surgery.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to members of the American Academy of Dermatology.
• The survey assessed the frequency of glove use during various dermatologic procedures, including biopsies, curettage, excisional surgery, hair transplants, and dermabrasion.

Main Results:

• A majority of surveyed dermatologists reported not regularly wearing gloves for basic procedures like shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and curettage/desiccation.
• Non-regular glove use was also reported for more complex procedures such as excisional surgery, hair transplants, and dermabrasion.

Conclusions:

• Significant underutilization of surgeon's gloves occurs in dermatologic surgery, potentially increasing the risk of hepatitis B virus transmission.
• There is a critical need to reinforce adherence to glove use protocols in dermatologic practice to enhance patient and physician safety.