All exam gloves can and do degrade — either because of rigorous use, inappropriate storage or simply due to the passage of time. Degradation can reduce the performance of the glove material, threatening the safety of healthcare workers and their patients.

That’s why it’s important to recognize when gloves have undergone too much wear and tear.

Degradation, in technical terms, is the reduction of the physical properties of a glove. Some common indicators of exam glove deterioration include:

• Hardening marked by brittleness
• Softening with the extension of the fingertips
• Tackiness
• Cracking
• Loss of strength
• Less tear resistance

If you see any of these signs, discard the exam gloves properly and put on a new pair.