Personal protective equipment (affectionately known as PPE—thanks, pandemic) may not be the most fun thing to shop for. But the reality is, surgeons know all too well the importance of PPE in protecting both themselves and their patients. So whether it’s booties and hairnets, or face shields and gowns, proper PPE is a must-have for every surgeon out there.
While there are many different types and brands of PPE, there are certain things that all surgeons want and need when it comes to such important medical gear. In this blog post, we will explore five of those things so that you never have to lose another pair of shoes to operating room (OR) spills or spatter again (hopefully). First, let’s talk about why PPE matters to surgeons and nurses.
No one joined an OR team to come home from work as clean as when they arrived. The potential for infection and cross-contamination is a threat every single shift—and Sloan knows that. That’s why our PPE aims to keep both healthcare workers and patients safe by not only addressing potentially infectious materials but through other means like:
- Shielding from bacteria
- Preventing the spread of viruses
- Creating a barrier between dangerous chemicals and pathogens
- Decreasing injuries from poor quality, ill-fitting PPE
- Providing better airflow with properly fitted masks
Have you ever gotten a cut from low-quality gloves? Or torn a gown that was snagged on something because it was the wrong fit? We’ve been there, too. Never again. Both patients and healthcare workers deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are protected by high-quality PPE.
Now, let’s go shopping.
PPE Requirements Based on Surgical Setting
There are many situations that require PPE. Here’s a common list below along with an article about what the CDC says about PPE.
| Type of PPE | Procedure |
| Gloves | Contact with blood or other body fluids |
| Surgical Masks | Healthcare facility; Any type of surgery |
| Gowns | Any type of surgery |
| Protective Eyewear | Any type of surgery |
| Shoe Covers | Any type of surgery |
What Surgeons Really Look for in Quality PPE and Why
In the operating room, surgeons need to have complete trust in their personal protective equipment. They rely on their PPE to keep them safe from exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially infectious materials. With that being a tall order, here’s what matters the most:
1. Protective eyewear that won’t fog up: We’ve all been there: wearing a mask in the grocery store with our glasses on and suddenly, after a few breaths, we can’t tell if we’re holding an apple or a pear. Imagine that happening to your eyewear during surgery. Surgeons need to be able to see clearly at all times during a procedure and eyewear that fogs can be a major obstacle.
Pro-tip: Look for eyewear that has an anti-fog coating or design features that help prevent fogging.
2. A comfortable fit: There’s a reason people travel in comfy clothes: a long day of being in something tight or stiff is no one’s idea of fun. Same with surgeons. They need to be able to focus on the task at hand, sometimes for hours on end, and uncomfortable PPE that causes chafing, irritation, or limited movement is never the right solution.
3. Breathability: If you’ve ever been in an operating room, then you know: it gets tense in there. That’s why it’s so important for surgeons and their team to stay cool and comfortable during a procedure. Choose PPE made from breathable materials that will help keep them cool and dry.
4. Durability: Even though no day is the same in the OR, putting on and taking off PPE is a process that does repeat itself. Surgeons need PPE that can stand up to high-frequency wear and subsequent laundering. Choose PPE made from high-quality materials that won’t break down after multiple uses.
5. Easy removal: Although one never anticipates a wardrobe change in the middle of the OR, it can be necessary. In the event of an emergency, surgeons need to be able to quickly remove their PPE. Look for PPE with easy-to-use fasteners that can be removed quickly and easily—because the OR is no place for a wardrobe malfunction.
We’ve Got You: Sloan Solution Options
With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to surge in many parts of the world, the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) has never been higher. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to turn. Hint: Sloan Medical PPE products check all the boxes.
- Material: PPE is made thick enough to protect against sharp objects and liquids, but comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time.
- Fit: Sloan PPE fits snugly and doesn’t interfere with movement or vision.
- Durability: Products are durable enough to withstand even the most difficult surgeries, with repeated use, and multiple washings.
- Availability: Because Sloan PPE is made in North America, there are fewer supply chain issues than with companies who make their products outside North America.
- Pricing: Sloan is competitive with other leading brands, so it’s easy to make the switch to Sloan.
Free samples: See below to request.
Suit Up: Send the Right Message to Your Staff
Supplying your staff with the best in PPE sends a message that their safety is a top priority. This can help foster a positive work environment and empower employees to face whatever challenges come their way. Show your team you care. Surgeons who switch to Sloan never go back—and staff members have never been happier. Let us prove it. Request free samples.
