The doctor later explained to Karen's parents that Karen had become sensitized to latex from frequent catheterizations. Apparently, latex from the surgeon's gloves and the anesthesia equipment had triggered an allergic reaction. In this article, we'll offer practical information to help you care for patients like these - and to avoid potential problems for yourself. Let's start by taking a closer look at the culprit. Latex is the milky sap that's derived from the rubber tree.
Rubber is a processed plant product that's derived from latex.
A patient can be exposed to latex in ways you might not expect. And, of course, a surgeon's latex gloves repeatedly touch mucous membranes during procedures such as Sherry Bilger's cesarean section. Latex particles can become airborne, attaching themselves to glove powder and spreading through the atmosphere. The particles can then be inhaled or come to rest on exposed mucous membranes, such as the conjunctiva. During surgery, a patient may inhale latex particles through anesthesia equipment.