Explanation Of Gown

Gowns are categorized based on their purpose, level of protection, and usage in healthcare or other settings. Here are the main categories:

1. Medical and Surgical Gowns

Surgical Gowns: Designed for use during surgery and other procedures where there is a high risk of exposure to bodily fluids. These gowns often have long sleeves with cuffs, are sterile, and provide a high level of protection.
Isolation Gowns: Used for general patient care and to protect against contamination. They are non-sterile, typically disposable, and available in different levels of protection (Levels 1-4, based on AAMI standards).
Procedural Gowns: Used for non-surgical procedures with moderate exposure to fluids, such as in ICU or ER settings. They provide similar protection to surgical gowns but may not be sterile.

2. Non-Medical Gowns

Protective Gowns: Used outside medical settings, such as in laboratories or for general protective purposes (e.g., handling chemicals or contaminants). These can include disposable or reusable options.
Visitor Gowns: Designed for visitors in healthcare settings or laboratories to prevent contamination. They offer minimal protection, often corresponding to Level 1 or Level 2 on the AAMI scale.

3. Disposable vs. Reusable Gowns

Disposable Gowns: Made from non-woven, synthetic materials like polypropylene or SMS (Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond). These are meant for single use and are disposed of after one wear.
Reusable Gowns: Made from durable, often fluid-repellent fabrics like polyester or polyester-cotton blends. They are washable and designed for multiple uses, commonly found in surgical or high-protection gowns.

4. AAMI Level Classification (Fluid Barrier Gowns)

Level 1 Gowns: Minimal protection, low fluid resistance; used for basic care and minimal-risk situations.
Level 2 Gowns: Low fluid protection; suitable for low-risk scenarios like drawing blood.
Level 3 Gowns: Moderate fluid protection, often used in the ER or for IV insertions.
Level 4 Gowns: High fluid resistance; typically used in surgery or high-risk scenarios with potential for heavy fluid exposure.

5. Coveralls and Full-Body Protection Gowns

Full-body protective gowns cover more surface area, including the head, legs, and feet, and are used in high-risk areas such as treating infectious diseases (e.g., Ebola). These gowns meet the highest protection standards, often Level 4 or higher.

The structure of a gown is designed to ensure maximum coverage, flexibility, and protection for healthcare professionals or users in various environments. Here are the typical structural elements and features of gowns:

1. Main Body (Front Panel)

The main panel covers the torso, extending from the neck down to below the knees for full coverage.
Made from protective materials (e.g., SMS fabric, polyethylene) that vary based on the gown’s level of protection (Levels 1-4 in healthcare gowns).
The front panel is often the most reinforced part to guard against splashes or contact with contaminants.

2. Sleeves

Long Sleeves with Cuffs: Most gowns have long sleeves with elastic cuffs to ensure a snug fit around the wrists and prevent sleeves from riding up. This helps provide a seal when gloves are worn over the cuffs.
Reinforced Sleeves: In higher-level gowns, sleeves are reinforced to improve fluid resistance, especially for high-risk procedures.

3. Neck Closure

Gowns often feature ties or hook-and-loop (Velcro) closures at the neck to secure the gown comfortably around the user’s neck.
Some gowns have an adjustable closure to allow for various neck sizes and ensure a snug fit, reducing the risk of exposure.

4. Waist Ties

Adjustable waist ties secure the gown around the body, helping it stay in place and preventing any gaps that might expose the wearer.
Ties may be located at the back or front, depending on gown design.

5. Back Panel (Open or Closed)

Open Back: Found in isolation gowns, where a full barrier in the back is not essential; these are easy to put on and allow better ventilation.
Closed Back: Surgical gowns often have a closed-back design for 360° protection, especially in sterile environments.

6. Seams and Reinforcements

Sealed Seams: Some gowns have heat-sealed or taped seams to enhance barrier protection, especially in Level 3 and 4 gowns.
Reinforced Areas: High-stress areas like shoulders, forearms, and chest may have extra layers or reinforced fabric in high-level gowns to increase durability and protection.

7. Length and Fit

Gowns typically extend below the knees for sufficient lower-body coverage.
Designed to be loose-fitting to allow for mobility, but they shouldn’t be so large that they create safety hazards.

8. Sterile Packaging (For Surgical Gowns)

Surgical gowns are usually packaged in sterile packs to maintain sterility until they are used, ensuring they meet the requirements for sterile procedures.

The standard for medical gowns, often known as isolation or surgical gowns, is primarily focused on ensuring adequate protection, comfort, and flexibility for the wearer in various healthcare settings. Here’s an overview of some standards typically associated with gowns:

1. AAMI Standards (ANSI/AAMI PB70:2012)

Level 1: Basic protection, minimal risk (e.g., simple isolation situations or standard medical care).
Level 2: Low risk (e.g., drawing blood or suturing).
Level 3: Moderate risk (e.g., arterial blood draw, inserting IV lines, or ER situations).
Level 4: High risk (e.g., surgery and intensive procedures with a high level of fluid exposure).

2. EN 13795 (European Standard)

Defines requirements for gowns used in healthcare to prevent contamination between patients and staff.
Focuses on the fabric’s performance, with categories like “Standard Performance” and “High-Performance” gowns for different clinical scenarios.

3. Material Standards

Gowns are typically made from materials like polypropylene, polyethylene, or SMS (Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond) for fluid resistance.
Non-woven and disposable materials are commonly used for single-use gowns, while some reusable gowns are made from high-grade fabrics with water-repellent coatings.

4. Barrier Performance Standards

Fluid and Particulate Barrier: Should protect against splashes and contamination.
Seam Strength: Ensures durability, especially in high-risk situations.
Resistance to Bacterial Penetration: For sterile environments, the gown must prevent bacteria from reaching the patient.

5. Sterility Standards

Sterile surgical gowns should be free from contaminants and packaged in a way that maintains sterility until opened in a sterile environment.

SINOMOX