Why is it generally advised to use powdered gloves rather than powder-free medical exam gloves?

The use of powdered gloves over powder-free medical exam gloves is generally advised primarily due to the issue of material integrity and performance. Powder-free gloves can be produced with certain treatments or processes to enhance their properties, but these processes can sometimes unintentionally weaken the latex material. This weakening can lead to the formation of defects such as pinholes and tears in the gloves, compromising their protective barrier. Ensuring a strong material is crucial in medical and laboratory settings where exposure to hazardous substances can occur.

While it is true that powdered gloves can enhance grip and that some individuals may have allergic reactions to materials in powdered gloves, these factors do not outweigh the concern regarding the integrity of the glove material, which is critical for safety and effectiveness. Additionally, cost and production considerations do not typically drive the recommendation regarding glove types in a clinical or laboratory context, as safety and function are prioritized.