In 2023, an expert group was established to develop clear guidance on surgical gloving practice from the existing literature. Their goal was to formulate recommendations to improve the safety, protection, and experience of healthcare providers and their patients. The expert panel members were assigned to one of four focus areas: Glove Fit, Double Gloving, Indicator Systems, and Glove Damage and Change Protocol; with each group conducting a systematic review of the evidence.

The 2025 Edition of the AORN Guidelines for Perioperative Practice emphasizes the importance of providing a climate of safety with evidence-based practices. Surgical gloves play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both patients and practitioners. Efforts continue to establish standardized best gloving practices, supported by evidenced-based recommendations. These standardized guidelines aim to enhance clinical outcomes, improve safety, and support hand health and career longevity.

This program will provide the attendee with an overview of how these two bodies of practice align with current recommendations for practice guidelines on surgical gloving.

Speakers: 

Chad Flora BSN, RN, CNOR, is a Clinical Director for the Surgical Glove Business Area at Mölnlycke Health Care. In addition to leading the U.S. Clinical Specialist Team, his responsibilities include clinical education, program development, and assisting with research and development initiatives.

Leah Goldberg MSN, RN, CNOR is the Clinical Nurse OR, Bone and Joint Institute at Hartford Hospital. She works in the operating room at the Bone and Joint Institute at Hartford Hospital and created Acorn Nurse Consulting, LLC to continue her passion for developing knowledge and resources for perioperative staff. She was honored as an AORN Emerging Leader Under 40 in 2012 and 2024. She received AORN’s Outstanding Achievement in Perioperative Education: Clinical Award in 2025.