Latex sensitivity among perioperative nurses.
To estimate the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical spectrum of adverse reactions to natural rubber latex-containing products among a national sample of perioperative nurses, the investigators administered a self-reporting questionnaire to a convenience sample of 2,200 members of the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc. Of the 1,738 nurses who responded, 369 (21%) reported latex reactions. Multivariate analysis identified a history of allergies to cosmetic powders, other allergies, chronic illnesses, and regular use of latex gloves as independent risk factors for reactions to latex-containing products. Localized reactions, such as contact dermatitis, were the reactions reported most commonly, although severe systemic reactions also were described.
Zaza
S
S
Epidemiology Program Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta.
Reeder
J M
JM
Charles
L E
LE
Jarvis
W R
WR
D000328:Adult; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005932:Gloves, Surgical / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D007840:Latex / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009871:Operating Room Nursing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology
D007840:Latex