How to Wear a Surgical Gown?

Wearing a surgical gown correctly is crucial for healthcare professionals to maintain a sterile environment during surgical procedures. It not only protects the wearer from potential contamination but also prevents the spread of infection. In this blog post, we will guide you through the correct steps to wear a surgical gown.

Step 1: Prepare yourself
Before putting on a surgical gown, ensure that you have properly washed your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This step is essential to eliminate any potential germs on your hands.

Step 2: Choose the right size
Select a surgical gown that fits you well. It should be loose enough to allow comfortable movement but not so loose that it poses a risk of snagging or tearing. Check the gown for any defects or damage before wearing it.

Step 3: Don sterile gloves
Put on sterile gloves before wearing the surgical gown. Make sure the gloves cover your wrists and are snug-fitting to provide optimum protection. Ensure that the gloves are free from any tears or holes.

Step 4: Open the gown
Hold the gown by the inside collar with the sterile gloves on. Shake the gown gently to open it fully without touching the outer surface. Keep in mind that the outer surface is considered contaminated, so avoid any contact with it.

Step 5: Slip your arms in
With the assistance of a colleague, slide your arms through the gown sleeves. The colleague should hold the gown and ensure that it doesn't touch the ground or any non-sterile surfaces. Your hands should remain inside the sleeves throughout the process.

Step 6: Secure the back
Ask your colleague to fasten the gown at the back, ensuring a snug fit. If the gown has ties, cross them over at the back and bring them to the front to tie securely. If it has buttons or snaps, fasten them properly.

Step 7: Adjust and inspect
Adjust the gown to improve comfort and range of motion, ensuring that it covers the front and back of your body completely. Inspect the gown for any visible defects or openings that may compromise its integrity.

Step 8: Complete the ensemble
After wearing the gown, put on your surgical cap, mask, and protective eyewear to complete the required ensemble. Ensure that these items are worn correctly to provide maximum protection.

Remember, the correct technique for donning a surgical gown may vary slightly depending on the type and design of the gown. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare facility or manufacturer.

By following these steps, healthcare professionals can ensure the proper wearing of surgical gowns, minimizing the risk of infection transmission and maintaining a sterile environment. Prioritizing patient safety and adhering to strict infection control protocols is paramount in providing high-quality healthcare services.