Propofol allergy: assessing for patient risks

Allergies to certain foods such as soybeans and eggs contraindicate the use of propofol, a short-acting hypnotic medication used by many anesthesia care providers. Understanding the safe use and handling of propofol and communicating known patient allergies to all surgical team members is crucial to providing safe perioperative care. The perioperative nurse's preoperative assessment supports and improves the plan of care for the patient by identifying the patient's risk factors. Obtaining a correct and precise history of allergies, not only to medication but to food, and concise hand-off reporting are essential for patient safety.