PPE Buying Guide for Clinics

Choosing exam gloves

Nitrile is the default for most clinical use — puncture-resistant, latex-free, and available chemo-tested. Vinyl is fine for short, low-risk tasks. Latex is thinner and more tactile but carries allergy risk.

• • 3.5 mil — general exam
• • 5 mil — chemo, dental, procedure
• • 8 mil+ — heavy-duty tasks

Masks and respirators

ASTM F2100 Level 1/2/3 describes surgical masks by fluid resistance and filtration. N95 respirators (NIOSH) filter at least 95% of airborne particles and require fit-testing.

Isolation gowns

AAMI PB70 Level 1 is minimal barrier; Level 2 is standard for most isolation carts; Level 3 handles moderate fluid contact; Level 4 is surgical.