Praetorian Disposable Gloves

Using powder-free latex gloves rather than those with cornstarch powder greatly reduced the number of workers' compensation claims related to latex-related illness, a recent Geisinger study found.

Healthcare workers use latex gloves to reduce the spread of infection and disease when caring for patients. The gloves also protect workers from exposure to chemicals, bodily fluids and other potentially dangerous substances.

Often, a powder such as cornstarch is added to make it easier to slip on or remove the gloves. The powder provides a dry grip for contact with moist hands. The powder also makes it more difficult for gloves to tear. But, powder can aggravate latex allergies. Allergic reactions caused by latex exposure range from simple itching to anaphylactic shock.