Latex glove allergy--dilemma for health care workers. An overview

AAOHN J. 2000 Jun;48(6):267-77.

Abstract

1. The prevalence of latex allergy in health care workers is estimated to be between 10% and 17%. 2. Reactions from wearing latex gloves can include irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and contact urticaria from latex proteins. 3. Individuals with a history of atopy, multiple surgeries early in life (particularly with bladder catheterization), or allergies to certain foods are considered at risk of latex allergy. 4. An early intervention protocol and documentation forms are offered for occupational health nurses faced with assessing potentially latex allergic employees.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gloves, Surgical / adverse effects*
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Latex Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Latex Hypersensitivity / physiopathology
  • Latex Hypersensitivity / prevention & control*
  • Occupational Diseases / immunology
  • Occupational Diseases / physiopathology
  • Occupational Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Occupational Health Nursing / methods*