Effectiveness of Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs in Glove Hygiene: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Year : 2026 | Volume : 16 | Issue : 01 | Page : 33 45
    By

    Mamta Puraswani,

  • Tarang Gupta,

  • Kamini Walia,

  • Kamran Farooque,

  • Purva Mathur,

  1. Scientist C, Department of Lab Medicine (Microbiology), Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
  2. Project Research Scientist II, Department of Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, India
  3. Scientist G and Head, Descriptive Research Headquarters, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, Delhi, India
  4. Chief and Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delh, Delhi, India
  5. Professor, ), Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, India

Abstract

Introduction: Hand hygiene is crucial for preventing hospital-acquired infections, though gloves have been reported to curb the spread of infection, but they have their limitation. While recommended for specific procedures, they don’t guarantee complete protection and frequent changes are resource limiting. This study investigates the potential of alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHR) for disinfecting gloves worn by healthcare workers (HCWs). Methodology: We conducted a meta-analysis searching six databases for studies on ABHR use for glove hygiene. Twelve studies met the criteria, evaluating the efficacy of ABHR on microbial reduction on gloves and the impact on infection rates. Results: The analysis showed significant reductions in microbial counts on gloves after ABHR application, regardless of glove type. Ten studies evaluated colony forming unit count before and after disinfection. The standard mean difference with 95% CI between the pre and post CFU count was –3.53 [–6.04, –1.02]. The test of overall effect showed significant difference in the microbial count on gloves before and after disinfectant (Z = 2.76; P = 0.006). Two studies examining infection rates reported a decline in rates of hospital acquired infections after implementing glove disinfection. Conclusions: This study highlights the urgent need of detailed studies to explore cost-effectiveness, user acceptance, and long-term effects of ABHR on various glove materials. As in-depth studies would help to furnish guidelines on glove hygiene, which will directly affect the patient care and infection rates in hospitals.

Keywords: Alcohol, glove hygiene, disinfection, infection control practices, hand rubs

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Microbiology and Virology ]

How to cite this article:
Mamta Puraswani, Tarang Gupta, Kamini Walia, Kamran Farooque, Purva Mathur. Effectiveness of Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs in Glove Hygiene: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Microbiology and Virology. 2026; 16(01):33-45.
How to cite this URL:
Mamta Puraswani, Tarang Gupta, Kamini Walia, Kamran Farooque, Purva Mathur. Effectiveness of Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs in Glove Hygiene: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Microbiology and Virology. 2026; 16(01):33-45. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjomv/article=2026/view=238851


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 16
Issue 01
Received 31/12/2025
Accepted 19/01/2026
Published 20/01/2026
Publication Time 20 Days
43

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