How to choose the right exam gloves for your clinic

Nitrile, vinyl or chemo-rated? A quick framework for matching glove material, thickness and cuff length to the task.

Match the glove to the task

Most clinics stock one glove for everything — and pay for it twice: in over-specified gloves for quick tasks, and in torn gloves when the job needs more.

Fit and sizing

Start with the task. Short, low-risk contact (reception, food handling) suits economical vinyl. Patient examination and most clinical work suits 3–4 mil nitrile. Hazardous drugs and chemicals need gloves tested for permeation, usually with an extended cuff.

Buying smart

Then check fit. Offer at least four sizes; a glove that is too large snags, one that is too small tears. Finally, buy by the case for the gloves you use daily and by the box for specialist gloves — volume pricing usually starts at ten cases.