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A hospital-based screening program for natural rubber latex allergy
Mary E Bollinger1, Kim Mudd, Lynn A Keible
1Division of Pediatric Pulmonology/Allergy, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA. mbolling@peds.umaryland.edu
Summary
A natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy screening program successfully identified at-risk healthcare workers. This allowed for safe accommodation, facilitating a transition to a NRL-free environment.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Allergy and Immunology
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy is a significant occupational health concern for healthcare workers, with an estimated 10% sensitization rate.
- Some institutions face challenges with complete NRL-free glove conversion due to cost and logistics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an NRL allergy screening program to identify at-risk employees and ensure a safe work environment.
- To create a plan for converting the institution to be entirely free of NRL gloves.
Main Methods:
- A multidisciplinary team implemented a mandatory NRL screening program for new and transferring patient care employees.
- Screening included a clinical questionnaire, immunoglobulin E (IgE) anti-NRL serology, and optional NRL skin testing.
- Employees with symptoms underwent evaluation by an allergist.
Main Results:
- Over 15 months, 1,795 employees were screened; 8% tested positive for NRL-specific IgE antibodies or skin reactivity.
- Among those positive, 57.3% reported symptoms related to powdered NRL glove exposure.
- NRL IgE-positive rates were 5.9% for non-patient care and 8.6% for direct patient care employees.
Conclusions:
- The University of Maryland Medical System's NRL screening program effectively identified at-risk employees.
- The program facilitated a safe working environment during the progressive conversion to a NRL-safe institution.