What is a risk associated with washing gloves?

Washing gloves, especially those made from materials like latex or nitrile, can lead to a risk known as wicking. Wicking occurs when moisture is absorbed by the glove material, which can potentially carry contaminants from the surface of the gloves into the glove material itself. This is particularly concerning in a dental hygiene setting where maintaining a sterile environment is crucial. If the gloves absorb moisture from the washing process, they may also harbor microorganisms, thereby increasing the risk of infection and compromising patient safety.

The other response options do not accurately reflect risks associated with washing gloves. While it's true that gloves might become tighter if they shrink or stretch due to washing, this is not typically viewed as a primary risk. Wicking, on the other hand, directly impacts the effectiveness of the gloves in protecting both the wearer and the patient. Increased durability and improved integrity of gloves from disinfectants would not occur from washing; in fact, washing can degrade glove materials, making them less reliable for protecting against pathogens.