Determining the Level of Discomfort Caused by Domestically Produced Surgical Latex Gloves Based on the Hand Anthropometry of Surgeons

Abstract

Background and purpose: The design of medical equipment is a crucial aspect of ergonomics, with the proper fit of tools in the user's hand being a significant consideration in production. This study aims to investigate the level of discomfort experienced by surgeons due to the use of latex gloves in the year 2021, to enhance user satisfaction and reduce workplace injuries. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 135 surgeons in the city of Sari. The data collection tools included a questionnaire for measuring anthropometry in two dimensions and assessing local discomfort. The questionnaire consisted of 12 questions to evaluate discomfort levels in the hands. Two-dimensional anthropometry measured the dimensions of the participants' hands, presenting a 24-dimensional result. Results: Overall, the various dimensions of anthropometry in male participants were larger than those in female participants, except for the second dimension. Male surgeons (52.1%) mostly used gloves size 7, while female surgeons (74.2%) preferred sizes 5/6. The lowest average pain level was recorded in Region B (1.24), and the highest average pain level was in Region I (2.43). Conclusion: The study results indicated that women experience higher levels of discomfort compared to men. The areas with the highest discomfort levels were identified, and optimal dimensions for designing and producing suitable gloves for the study population were determined.

Keywords

• anthropometry
• localized discomfort
• surgical gloves
• optimal dimensions.