I'm new in private practice and had never considered the idea of wearing gloves for the full consult.  It would seem odd to me - and very sterile.  I make a point of asking Mom or Dad where I can wash my hands when I arrive so they know my hands are clean.  During the baby's exam, I only use gloves for the oral exam and to check the cord stump for any signs of infection.  I wouldn't consider doing an oral exam without gloves - fingernails are one of the germiest places on our body and a regular hand washing without a nail brush is not sufficient.  I've never had a situation that called for me to touch an open wound on a Mom, but if that scenario came up, I would definitley glove for that.  I think my clients understand why I use gloves when I do, but I do think it would send a negative, uncomfortable message to mothers if I wore gloves for the entire consult.  
Jillian Malan

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