More severe reactions may involve respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and asthma. The worst case scenario, of course, is anaphylaxis. Mucosal exposure may result in more severe reactions than cutaneous exposure, making it particularly important to identify sensitized patients prior to surgery or dental, pelvic, or rectal exams. In other words, many people. Workers not at risk of exposure to infectious agents should be using latex alternatives.
Physicians can play a key role in latex allergy prevention.
The most basic tenet of the Hippocratic Oath do no harm can be honored if each and every health care provider protects themselves, their co-workers, and their patients by incorporating latex allergy awareness, exposure control, and prevention in their practice. Make alternative products available in all work areas. Develop a comprehensive latex policy. Periodically screen high-risk workers for latex allergy symptoms. Schedule latex sensitive or allergic patients early in the day when contam-inants should be at lowest levels.