Research based prevention strategies. Management of latex allergy in the workplace

1. Facility-wide goals should combine primary and secondary prevention approaches to reduce or minimize contact and aerosolized natural rubber latex exposure for clients, employees, and visitors. 2. Potential immune sensitization or continuation of symptoms of latex allergy can be reduced by using screening questionnaires to recognize potential risk factors or history of latex allergy; documentation of a referral to a physician for diagnosis; standardization of facility-wide general product selection; and work environment controls by discriminate, appropriate, informed glove choices. 3. Discriminate glove choices of nonlatex, non-powedered, or low allergen/non-powdered natural rubber latex gloves have become the primary proactive strategy adopted by hospitals and clinics to create a latex minimized environment.