Mandated Latex Free Environment

Mandated Latex Free Environment

Introduction

Latex allergy is caused by the proteins that are present in the natural rubber. Reactions of allergy because of these proteins are mainly immediate; however in some instances these allergic reactions can be delayed. Study was suggested that around around 9%-13% percent of healthcare professionals are sensitized to latex (De Queiroz, 2009). Individuals who are at risk of allergic reactions by latex are those individuals who have tendencies for allergic conditions, individuals having food allergies, and individuals with spina bifida. Risk of latex reactions can be minimized by making use of powder-free gloves and by not using hand creams that contain oil, at the time of wearing latex gloves. Still, an individual is exposed to residue of latex from other individuals who are working in the similar area or latex that is present within the mannequins, models and equipment while wearing other nitrile or vinyl gloves. Even though, the most prominent cause of latex allergy is latex gloves as well as many other products that contain latex, however not limited to:

Goggles, respirators, catheters, and stethoscopes

Wound drains, syringe connectors, medication vials, and Blood pressure cuffs

IV tourniquets and tubing, syringes, and Endotracheal tubes

computer terminals, paint, erasers etc

Discussion

Current Status

Patients and workers who are exposed to latex gloves and some other products that contain rubber develop sensitivity and allergic reactions like asthma, sinus symptoms, eye or nasal symptoms, hives, and rashes. In heal care settings, latex allergy is a rising issues. According to the estimation provided by National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health; 8-12 percent of professionals in healthcare environments are sensitized relative to 1-6 percent of the general public. A recent research of healthcare individuals with frequent exposures to latex revealed asymptomatic individuals to have a high rate of allergy as compared to those individuals with clinical indications (Ross, 2012).The Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United States consider occupational latex allergy as the main issue in clinical settings. However, no legislative action has been planned. The aim of the paper is to provide a plan from the perspective of policy maker, in order to minimize the risk of latex allergy in heath care settings.

Plan for Latex Free Environment

In order to provide a latex free environment plan for health care settings, this paper has considered a systematic approach. In a healthcare setting, patients and professionals who might have developed latex allergy symptoms would be encouraged to seek advice from health care physician (Duger, et.al, 2013). These consults will be at expense of patients and healthcare professionals. The responsibility of understanding the latex allergy risks during health care profession and clinical education, even when necessary precautions will be made will lie with patients and workers who will have the sensitivity of latex. These precautions will include performing an epi-pen by the people or some other recommendations that will be made by the healthcare provider.

Utilization of latex gloves will be prohibited in healthcare facilities provided in all health care settings

In all areas of lab, ...