Acceptance of semipermeable glove liners compared to cotton glove liners in health care workers with work-related skin diseases: Results of a quasi-randomized trial under real workplace conditions

Abstract

Background Glove liners (GLs) made of cotton (COT) are worn under impermeable gloves to prevent occlusion effects. Semipermeable GLs made of Sympatex (SYM) might be an alternative. Objectives To evaluate the acceptance of GLs (COT/SYM) in health care workers (HCWs) with work-related skin diseases (WRSDs). Methods One hundred sixty-one HCWs with WRSDs were asked to wear GLs in combination with occlusive gloves for 10 /- 2 weeks under workplace conditions. A questionnaire was applied to compare acceptance and usability of the respective glove combinations and previously used protective gloves (PUGs). Results A total of 120 data sets were available (SYM: n = 65, 77.4%; COT: n = 55, 71.4%). Both GLs provided a significantly lower sweating sensation, more pleasant climate, comfortable wearing experience, and moist or dry feeling on the skin compared to PUGs. SYM-GLs performed significantly better than COT-GLs regarding mobility of hands, sensitivity, and sense of touch. COT-GLs were significantly better than SYM-GLs in the categories fit, donning and doffing, and material contact. Conclusions Both GLs did not impair work performance, were applicable in various areas of health care activities, and were preferred over PUGs. Our results indicate that SYM-GLs are an alternative to COT-GLs and thus may contribute to current prevention strategies.