36. Comparison between existing and experimental surgical gowns for mass per unit area by using small samples

Abstract

The selection of an appropriate material used for manufacturing medical textiles is an important subject for health care personnel in terms of providing safety and protection against many hazards at work place. The present study aimed at determining mass per unit area of various fabrics used for making surgical gowns. A comprehensive comparison was made between existing and experimental gowns. The study was experimental in nature. All laboratory work was performed at PCSIR Laboratories Complex Lahore. Samples of existing gowns were collected from public and private hospitals in Lahore. These were categorized into three groups A, B and C based on their fiber content. Experimental fabric was manufactured with 99% polyester and 1% carbon fiber by following plain interlacing pattern. Mass per unit area of existing and experimental fabrics for gowns was identified through BS EN 12127 test method at 0, 5^th, 10^th , 15^th  and 20^th  laundering intervals. Results were tabulated and presented though graphs. Descriptive statistics along with statistical correlation was determined. P-value less ≤ 0.05 was considered as significant. According to the results of mass per unit area, it was found that weight of existing surgical gown fabric increased after consequent launderings whereas experimental surgical gown weight remained the same.

Keywords: ASTM; Existing Surgical Gowns; Experimental surgical gowns; Laundering Intervals; Mass per Unit Area

http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2020.90216