What is the suggested time interval to change surgical gloves? An integrative review

Abstract

To change gloves during a procedure constitutes an important measure to maintain its integrity and to prevent infection in the surgical site, however, there is little consensus regarding the time for these changes. Our objective was to identify, analyze and synthesize findings available in the literature about the suggest time interval to change surgical gloves during procedures to keep its integrity. We conducted an integrative review of studies published between 2003 and 2016. We selected 19 studies addressing the relationship of surgical glove integrity and its use time. The studies showed a direct connection between surgery time and the increase of gloves perforation. Based on our analysis, we suggest changing gloves in less than 120 minutes for surgeries in the digestive system, gynecological and thoracic. The creation of protocols for different surgical specialties should be considered.