Latex allergy in health care workers. What are the risks?

Individuals with a history of atopy are at increased risk of becoming latex allergic. Specific food allergies also cross react with latex. It is important to choose products low in allergen content and powder free to minimize exposure when use of latex products is essential. Using nonlatex products whenever possible is essential. Education of health care workers, clients, and their families about latex products, latex allergy, and substitutions for latex products needs to be current and ongoing. Development of clear guidelines related to working with health care workers with latex allergies encourages management to consider the seriousness of latex allergy and ways to avoid it.