When putting on the second glove of a set of sterile gloves, what should you avoid using?

When donning the second glove in a sterile glove set, it is vital to maintain sterility throughout the process. The thumb of the first hand should be avoided when handling the second glove because using it can potentially contaminate the sterile glove. The thumb often comes into contact with surfaces that may not be sterile, and any contact made using it increases the risk of introducing pathogens to the sterile glove.

In correct practice, it is advisable to use only the fingers of the gloved hand to maneuver the second glove. This limits contact to areas that are likely to be cleaner and reduces the chance of transferring contaminants. Employing the index and pinky fingers can provide better control and maintain sterility.

Understanding the importance of how gloves are put on is crucial in various settings like healthcare, where maintaining a sterile environment is key to preventing infections.