SRS16 - Gloves off for greener ENT: tackling waste in ENT departments

Abstract Aims The healthcare sector generates significant waste, with single-use items like non-sterile gloves being major contributors. Recent ENT UK guidance recommends reducing unnecessary glove use in routine procedures, including examinations, wax microsuction, and flexible nasoendoscopy. This QIP at LNWH Trust aimed to evaluate current glove use, assess awareness of sustainability guidance, and identify opportunities to reduce waste and promote more sustainable clinical practice. Methods Two retrospective survey cycles were conducted among ENT staff at LNWH Trust. The survey assessed glove-use and hand hygiene practices, awareness of ENT UK sustainability guidance, and attitudes towards environmental sustainability in clinical care. Following the first cycle, a multi-platform intervention was introduced: a custom-built website and downloadable posters with QR codes linking to the guidance. Posters were displayed in ENT clinics and wards to maximise visibility and engagement. Results Following implementation, awareness of ENT UK guidance increased from 4.1 to 6.4/10, and perceived importance of sustainability rose from 7.2 to 7.8/10. ‘Always wear gloves’ responses fell significantly: ENT examinations from 12 to 4.2%, wax microsuction from 24 to 4.2%, and nasoendoscopy from 56 to 33.3%. Correspondingly, ‘mostly rely on handwashing’ responses increased from 16 to 41.7%, 8 to 25%, and 0 to 4.2%, respectively. Conclusions This QIP highlights an opportunity to improve sustainability in ENT practice by reducing unnecessary glove use. Targeted, accessible interventions such as posters and a custom website can improve sustainable care without compromising standards. Materials are freely available to support wider adoption across UK ENT departments.