Single-use/multiple-use gowns and drapes: criteria for decision making.

1. Perioperative managers have more product choices for gowning and draping materials than ever before. Decision making is more difficult, yet more critical. The product/system selected must meet the patient care, employee protection, and cost expectations of the department. 2. Decision-making should be based on product characteristics, cost considerations, and availability of resources in the institution or service area. 3. Before deciding on any product, a criteria-based evaluation should be conducted. Product, characteristics should be weighed in terms of importance.