LATEX ALLERGY

Latex is a milky sap produced by

rubber trees. The sap is blended with chemicals during manufacturing to give latex its elastic quality.

Natural rubber latex is often found in: rubber gloves condoms balloons rubber bands erasers and toys Tires

People with other allergies side from repeated exposure to latex, risk factors include a history of asthma or atopy. Atopy is a tendency toward allergic symptoms (such as allergic rhinitis and eczema , also known as dermatitis) to a variety of allergens. Moreover, people with allergies to grass pollens (also known as hay fever) or other allergies, particularly to foods such as bananas, avocados, kiwi, and chestnuts, are frequently cross-reactive to latex because the proteins of these foods are very similar to that of latex. Pre-op patients should be asked about any of these allergies prior to surgery.

Symptoms

There are different types of reactions that can occur upon contact with latex:

Delayed-type

Contact Dermatitis

This condition appears 12 to 36 hours after contact with a latex product. Symptoms may include: Red skin

Scaly skin Itchy skin

This type of reaction is usually triggered by the added chemicals in the rubber. Symptoms may be very irritating but typically not life-threatening.

 Immediate Allergic Reactions These reactions occur in people who have been previously exposed to latex and have become sensitized to the allergen which triggers the immune system to respond. With re-exposure to latex, symptoms may include:

Sneezing or runny nose Coughing or wheezing Itchy throat Itchy, watery eyes

In the most serious allergic reaction, symptoms occur within minutes and involve multiple systems in the body.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis typically involve more than one part of the body and may include: Red rash (usually itchy and may have welts/hives) Swollen throat or swollen areas of the body Wheezing Passing out Chest tightness Trouble breathing Hoarse voice Trouble swallowing Vomiting Diarrhea Stomach cramping Pale or red color to the face and body

The only way to prevent an allergic reaction to latex is to avoid the substance. A new, natural rubber latex from the desert plant guayule is now being used for many products. This product is thought to be a safer alternative for people with latex allergy and healthcare workers.
Synthetic products are also safe. Substitutes for latex gloves, such as vinyl or nitrile gloves, should be used at all times by people with latex allergy. Natural skin condoms are available, but while they protect against pregnancy, they do not shield against HIV or other sexually-transmitted diseases. If you have mild skin reactions from latex, antiinflammatory medications may help relieve symptoms.

Assessment of Patients With LATEX ALLERGY

History and manifestations; comprehensive allergy history

Diagnostic tests
CBC-eosinophil count Total serum IgE Skin tests: note precautions

Screening procedures

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 Diagnosing

Latex Allergy

Latex allergy should be suspected in anyone who develops certain symptoms after latex exposure, including nasal, eye, or sinus irritation; hives; shortness of breath; coughing; wheezing; or unexplained shock.

Diagnostic tools include a standardized glove-use test or skin tests that involve scratching or pricking the skin through a drop of liquid containing latex proteins. A positive reaction is shown by itching, swelling or redness at the test site. Skin testing and glove-use tests should be performed only at medical centers with staff who are experienced and equipped to handle severe reactions.

Prevention and Treatment of Anaphylaxis

Screen and prevent Treat respiratory problems; provide oxygen, intubation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation as needed PATENT AIRWAY Epinephrine: 1:1,000 SQ Auto injection system: EpiPen May follow with IV epinephrine

IV fluids

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Self-Administration of Epinephrine

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Nursing ProcessAssessment of the Patient With Latex Allergy

Assess health history Include personal and family history Perform an allergy assessment Subjective data includes symptoms and how the patient feels before symptoms become obvious Note the relationship between symptoms and seasonal changes, emotional problems, and stress Identify nature of antigens, seasonal changes in symptoms, and medication history

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Collaborative Problems/Potential Complications

Anaphylaxis Impaired breathing

Nonadherence to therapeutic regimen

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Goals

may include:

Restoration of normal breathing pattern Increased knowledge about the causes and control of

allergic symptoms
Improved coping with alterations and modifications

Absence of complications

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Improved Breathing Pattern

Modify the environment to reduce allergens Reduce exposure to people with upper respiratory infection Take deep breaths and cough frequently

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Promoting Understanding/ Patient Teaching

Instruction to minimize allergens Use of medications Desensitization procedures

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