Final answer:
Heavy-duty utility, tear-resistant, rubber-type gloves are the recommended protective gloves when cleaning an ambulance and equipment. These offer better protection against potential hazards compared to other types of gloves. Personal safety and proper hygiene protocols must be strictly followed during cleaning.
Step-by-step explanation:
When cleaning an ambulance and equipment, it is important to use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to potentially infectious materials or hazardous chemicals. The appropriate type of gloves to wear for this task would be heavy-duty utility, tear-resistant, rubber-type gloves. These are designed to provide more protection against punctures, abrasions, and chemicals than thinner gloves such as latex exam gloves or clear plastic food service gloves. It is crucial to never clean without wearing gloves as there is a risk of exposure to harmful substances and infections.
Furthermore, in scenarios involving potentially infectious materials, additional PPE such as a protective coat, face protection, and cut-resistant gloves are required. Following contact with contaminants, immediate washing of the skin with detergent and warm water, as well as disinfection with either 1 N NaOH or a bleach dilution, is recommended for safety. Disposal of contaminated waste and instrument cleaning protocols also need to be strictly adhered to for proper hygiene and infection control.