Medical Gowns
These gowns are worn by doctors, nurses, surgeons and other medical personnel to protect the wearer from fluids, germs and bacteria. These gowns may be referred to by many names, including surgical gowns, isolation gowns, surgical isolation gowns, non-surgical gowns, procedural gowns and operating room gowns. The different styles of gowns offer different levels of protection for low to high risk situations, which is why it’s appropriate to always choose the right gown. The main types of medical gowns are:
- Non-surgical gowns: These multipurpose gowns are worn when there is a low to moderate risk of contamination, but medical personnel still need more protection than just their scrubs. They are not worn during surgical procedures or when there is a higher risk of contamination. They are made of multi-ply material that is usually coated or treated to provide fluid resistance.
- Coveralls: These are worn when a high level of protection is needed (for instance, when working with blood that could transmit hepatitis or HIV). These gowns are made of plastic or another kind of waterproof fabric that repels fluid. As the name suggests, these garments are worn over scrubs or other gowns for added protection.
- Surgical and surgical isolation gowns: These gowns are designed for surgery, as the name implies. Surgical gowns are used during controlled procedures when the risk of contamination and splashes is a bit lower. Protection is concentrated mostly on the cuffs up to the elbows and the front from the chest downwards. Surgical isolation gowns provide more protection for the upper chest and arms as well as the rest of the body. They are used during surgical procedures with a higher risk of contamination.