Why Do Isolation Gowns Have Different Protection Levels?

It was only after the COVID-19 pandemic that people around the world started getting more curious about PPE supplies and kits. Before that, only medical professionals and similar industry professionals knew anything and everything about PPE or personal protective equipment. 

One of the key components of an effective PPE strategy is the isolation gown. It is designed to prevent the wearer from cross-contamination and protect his/her skin and clothing from infectious solids and liquids. 

But, one thing that makes everyone curious about isolation gowns is the levels they come in. In fact, not knowing the levels can prove challenging when it comes to purchasing isolation gowns for certain needs. So, today, we will break down different levels to help you understand which level isolation gown suits which situation.  

1- Level 1

Isolation gowns that have level 1 protection offer minimal protection. They suit best to be used in general hospital circumstances or when healthcare workers and medical professionals are offering basic care where sterile gowns aren’t important. 

Level 1 isolation gowns offer a slight barrier against fluids. This means they don’t work well for blood draws, in ICUs or pathology labs. 

2- Level 2

The next on the list is level 2 isolation gowns. This type of isolation gown proves ideal for low-risk situations where sterile gowns aren’t important, like working in a pathology lab and ICUs or for drawing blood from veins. 

Level 2 isolation gowns are tested by pressurizing the materials used for making the gowns and then impacting the gown with water. These types of gowns are better in blocking fluids than level 1 gowns. They are effective against fluid penetration that can occur due to splatter or soaking.

3- Level 3

If you buy a level 3 isolation gown, then you can easily use it for moderate risk scenarios. These scenarios can be anything from drawing the blood from arteries to inserting IVs in the ER and trauma centre that requires sterile gowns and equipment. 

Level 3 isolation gowns are effective against soaking and splatters. The same test used to test the level 2 gown is used to test the level 3 isolation gown to comprehend its potency. 

4- Level 4

The last and the highest level is the level 4 isolation gowns. These types of gowns are used in all high-risk circumstances, like during surgeries in the operating rooms that require sterile equipment. 

Level 4 isolation gowns are heavy-duty gowns because they can prevent virus and fluid penetration for almost up to an hour. 

During the testing process, level 4 isolation gowns are subjected to simulated blood that contains a virus. If by the end of the testing, the virus doesn’t penetrate the gown, then the gown is designated as a level 4 isolation gown. 

These gowns offer incredible pathogen resistance, works as a barrier to large amounts of fluids for extended time periods and also offer protection against non-airborne diseases to the wearer, making it an optimal choice. 

Over to you

Well, we hope our in-depth breakdown on each level gave you an idea of which level of isolation gown you must choose based on the situation you wish to deal with. 

Also, don’t forget to connect with Linen Plus if you want to buy a level 3 isolation gown.