FDA bans powdered gloves

Editor's Note

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on December 19, 2016, published a final rule banning powdered surgeon gloves, powdered patient examination gloves, and absorbable powder for surgeon’s gloves, effective January 18, 2017.

The FDA says it issued the ban because these products present unreasonable and substantial risks to healthcare providers, patients, and other individuals.

The FDA believes the ban should have minimal economic and shortage impact on the healthcare industry, and that a transition to alternatives should not result in any detriment to public health.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or Agency) has determined that Powdered Surgeon's Gloves, Powdered Patient Examination Gloves, and Absorbable Powder for Lubricating a Surgeon's Glove present an unreasonable and substantial risk of illness or injury and that the risk cannot be corrected or...