5 Identify patients who are at risk Individuals who are considered high risk, suspect or symptomatic for latex protein sensitivity should be identified. 6 Resource individual Hospitals may wish to identify a resource person who can be contacted should the need arise for consultation. Such individuals may include an allergist, immunologist, dermatologist, clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner or occupational health practitioner. 7 Education on latex safety Education is a key to recognition, management and prevention of adverse reactions. Educational programmes should be conducted for all personnel on issues of latex protein sensitivity by the facility, or facilities may choose to contact industry representatives for programmes on the subject.
Patient education is also a key to effective risk reduction.
Because latex protein allergy can be life threatening, the patient needs to be aware of the causes of the allergy, actions to be taken if exposure occurs, measures for avoiding natural rubber latex products and risk reduction strategies including medic alert bracelets. 8 Communication is the key Communication is an essential component of any risk management programme. All personnel having contact with a latex allergic patient should be made aware of the condition. Communication should begin from the moment the patient enters the healthcare facility. A mechanism for communicating the information regarding a latex allergic patient should be established.