Latex allergy: what it could mean for you.
With the increase in infectious disease epidemics and the need to protect health-care workers, the use of rubber gloves has increased twofold. Recent reports have noted an increase also in the prevalence of natural rubber latex allergy among some of these workers. A newly emerging problem, the allergy has potentially life-threatening consequences for those affected, a fact which has far-reaching ramifications for all those working in contact with latex, critical care nurses in particular. Indeed, the allergy has had a major impact on one such nurse, to the extent that she has had to relinquish her career and make significant changes to her lifestyle. Latex allergy was first recognised in 1927 but has become more prevalent in the last few years. There are two types of reactions, type I and type IV, with symptoms varying from a mild itch to anaphylaxis. Diagnosis is made via a blood or skin test, as well as a patient history. Treatment is to medicate for symptoms, while avoidance is the only way to prevent occurrences. The case study which follows reveals the impact that this allergy can have on a critical care nurse.
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D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D003422:Critical Care; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D020315:Latex Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy