What are the differences between a surgical gown and an isolation gown?

Everyone is familiar with medical practices and the essential equipment required to provide proper patient care. Healthcare professionals are trained to focus on safety and infection control measures to keep patients, staff, and the public safe. One such item that is crucial in a medical setting is wearing protective clothing, such as surgical and isolation gowns. Although both garments serve the same purpose, there are some fundamental differences between the two.

What is a Surgical Gown?

A surgical gown is a type of personal protective equipment worn by healthcare workers during surgical procedures. It is designed to protect both the patient and the healthcare workers from the spread of infection. Surgical gowns are typically made from a non-woven fabric and come in various sizes, colors, and styles. Most surgical gowns are disposable and disposed of after one use to maintain hygiene levels.

The purpose of a surgical gown is to provide a barrier to infectious materials and prevent contamination. It provides full-body coverage, including the arms and legs, and covers the front and back of the body. It must be worn with gloves, a mask, eye protection, and a hat to ensure full protection. Surgical gowns are essential for maintaining a sterile environment in surgical procedures, and they act as a barrier to prevent any microorganisms present on the skin or clothing from entering the surgical field.

What is an Isolation Gown?

An isolation gown is a protective garment worn by healthcare workers during patient care activities. They are also made of non-woven material to provide a barrier to fluids and microorganisms. Unlike surgical gowns, isolation gowns are available in reusable and disposable options. They can be laundered and used several times before being disposed of or recycled.

The purpose of an isolation gown is to protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious materials during procedures like blood draws, inserting IV lines, or coming into contact with bodily fluids. The gown provides full coverage of the body, including the arms and legs, and typically ties at the back to ensure a secure fit. Unlike the surgical gown, it is not worn with other protective gear, such as a mask or gloves, unless necessary.

Differences Between Surgical Gowns and Isolation Gowns

The primary differences between a surgical gown and an isolation gown are the level of protection provided, how they are used, and their intended application.

Level of Protection

Surgical gowns provide a higher level of protection compared to isolation gowns. They are designed to safeguard both the patient and the healthcare worker from the spread of infection. Their primary use is to maintain a sterile environment in surgical procedures. Surgical gowns provide full-body coverage and are worn with other protective gear, such as masks, gloves, and eye protection.

In contrast, isolation gowns are designed to protect healthcare workers from exposure to infectious materials. They provide moderate protection against fluids and microorganisms but are not designed for use in sterile environments. Isolation gowns are typically worn when there is a risk of exposure to infectious material during patient care activities.

How They Are Used

Surgical gowns are used in surgical procedures and are typically disposable, meaning they are used for one procedure and disposed of immediately after use. They must be worn by all healthcare workers participating in a surgical procedure, and re-use is not recommended.

Isolation gowns, on the other hand, are used in patient care activities, such as drawing blood, inserting IV lines, and wound care. They are available in both disposable and reusable options and can be laundered and reused several times before being disposed of or recycled. Isolation gowns are used by healthcare workers who may be exposed to infectious materials, so they tie at the back to ensure a secure fit.

Intended Application

Surgical gowns are designed for use in sterile environments and are worn during surgical procedures to prevent the spread of infection. They are made from non-woven fabric and come in various sizes, colors, and styles. Surgical gowns are an essential part of maintaining a sterile environment in surgical procedures, which is why they are used in operating rooms and other surgical settings.

In contrast, isolation gowns are designed for use in non-sterile environments where there is a risk of exposure to infectious materials. They provide moderate protection against fluids and microorganisms but are not designed for use in sterile environments. Healthcare workers use isolation gowns in patient care activities where there is a risk of exposure to infectious materials.

Conclusion

In conclusion, surgical gowns and isolation gowns are both important tools in protecting healthcare workers and patients from the spread of infection. While both garments serve a similar purpose, there are fundamental differences that must be considered while using them. Understanding these differences helps healthcare workers to select the appropriate type of gown to wear while performing a specific procedure. This ensures that the correct level of protection is provided to minimize the risk of infection and maintain a safe environment.