User experience of wearing comfort of reusable versus disposable surgical gowns and environmental perspectives: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

ObjectiveTo determine the user experience of wearing comfort of reusable sterile surgical gowns and compare these gowns with conventional disposable surgical gowns.DesignCross-sectional survey.SettingsAn academic hospital in the Netherlands, population Gynaecologists, surgeons, residents and operating room assistants (n = 80).MethodsQuantitative and qualitative data were obtained via a written questionnaire. Participants provided subjective comments and scored the reusable gown on each individual topic with a score from 1 to 5 (1 = unsatisfactory, 2 = moderate, 3 = good, 4 = very good, 5 = excellent) and compared the reusable gown with the conventional disposable alternative (better, equal or worse).Main outcome measuresWearing comfort: ventilation and temperature regulation, fit and length, functionality, barrier function and ease of use.ResultsThe results of the overall scores of the reusable gown are scored as 'very good' (mean 4.3, SD +/- 0.5) by its users. Regarding comparison of the gowns, more than 79% (lowest score 79%, highest score 95%) of the participants scored the reusable gown equal or higher on six of seven topics. The topic 'ease of use' was scored equal or higher by 59% of the participants. Subjective comments provided information on possible improvements.ConclusionsThe findings of this study demonstrate that there is professional acceptance regarding the utilisation of reusable surgical gowns. To facilitate broader adoption, it is imperative to foster collaboration among suppliers and healthcare institutions. The reusable surgical gown is an environmentally sustainable, safe and comfortable alternative in the operating room.