PPE Buying Guide for Healthcare Facilities: Gloves, Masks, Gowns and Face Shields

Complete PPE Procurement Guide for Hospitals, Clinics, and Care Facilities

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the frontline defense against healthcare-associated infections. This comprehensive buying guide helps healthcare facilities procure quality PPE at optimal prices while maintaining adequate inventory levels.

Essential PPE Categories for Healthcare Settings

Medical Examination Gloves

Gloves are the most frequently used PPE item in healthcare. Understanding the differences between materials is crucial for proper selection:

• Nitrile Gloves – Latex-free, excellent chemical resistance, preferred for most clinical applications. Available in various thicknesses from 3-8 mil.
• Latex Gloves – Superior tactile sensitivity and elasticity, but poses allergy risks. Best for procedures requiring fine motor control.
• Vinyl Gloves – Cost-effective for low-risk tasks, food service, and housekeeping. Not recommended for clinical procedures.
• Neoprene Gloves – Good for patients and staff with latex allergies, offers decent chemical protection.

Sizing and Selection Criteria

Proper glove sizing reduces hand fatigue and improves dexterity. Stock sizes XS through XL with heavier inventory in M and L sizes, which represent 60-70% of typical usage.

Face Masks and Respirators

Surgical/Procedure Masks (ASTM Levels 1-3)

• Level 1 – Low barrier protection for general patient care, low-risk procedures
• Level 2 – Moderate barrier for procedures with light fluid exposure
• Level 3 – High barrier for surgery and high-risk procedures with fluid exposure

N95 and Higher Respirators

NIOSH-approved N95 respirators filter at least 95% of airborne particles. Essential for:

• Aerosol-generating procedures
• Caring for patients with airborne diseases (TB, COVID-19, measles)
• Environmental exposure to hazardous particles

Protective Gowns and Apparel

Isolation Gowns (AAMI Levels 1-4)

• Level 1 – Minimal risk, basic care activities
• Level 2 – Low risk, blood draw, suturing
• Level 3 – Moderate risk, arterial blood draw, inserting IV lines
• Level 4 – High risk, surgery, high-pressure fluid exposure

Surgical Gowns vs. Isolation Gowns

Surgical gowns meet stricter standards for liquid barrier protection and are required in operating rooms. Isolation gowns suffice for general patient care and non-surgical procedures.

Eye and Face Protection

• Safety Glasses – Basic protection for splash hazards, side shields required
• Goggles – Sealed protection against splashes and aerosols
• Face Shields – Full-face coverage, often used with masks for maximum protection
• Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) – Maximum respiratory and facial protection

PPE Procurement Best Practices

Vendor Selection Criteria

1. FDA registration and compliance verification
2. Quality certifications (ISO 13485, CE marking where applicable)
3. Supply chain transparency and redundancy
4. Emergency stockpile access and rapid fulfillment capabilities
5. Competitive pricing with volume discount structures

Inventory Management Strategies

Maintain 60-90 days of PPE inventory for critical items. Implement par-level systems with automatic reordering triggers at 30% depletion.

Cost Optimization Tactics

• Join GPO (Group Purchasing Organization) contracts for better pricing
• Negotiate annual contracts with volume commitments
• Consolidate vendors to maximize purchasing power
• Consider private-label alternatives for commodity items
• Monitor market pricing trends and buy strategically

Quality Assurance and Compliance

Regulatory Requirements

All PPE must meet applicable FDA, OSHA, and NIOSH standards. Maintain documentation of:

• 510(k) clearance for medical devices
• NIOSH certification for respirators
• ASTM/AAMI test reports for barrier protection claims
• Lot traceability for recall management

Incoming Quality Verification

Sample test incoming PPE shipments for conformance. Check for:

• Package integrity and proper labeling
• Expiration dates with adequate remaining shelf life
• Physical defects (holes, tears, contamination)
• Proper fit and sizing accuracy

PPE Training and Compliance

Annual training is required for all staff on proper PPE selection, donning, doffing, and disposal. Include competency assessments and refresher training after policy updates or new product introductions.

Sustainability Considerations

Balance infection control with environmental responsibility:

• Evaluate reusable gown programs with validated laundering protocols
• Choose suppliers with sustainable manufacturing practices
• Implement proper waste segregation for recyclable components
• Consider extended-use protocols where clinically appropriate

Partner With LAC Health for Your PPE Needs

LAC Health offers comprehensive PPE solutions for healthcare facilities of all sizes. Our wholesale programs include competitive pricing, reliable supply chains, and expert consultation to optimize your PPE procurement strategy. Contact our team for customized pricing on bulk orders.