Exposure characteristics and cutaneous problems in operating room staff

Health care personnel have exposure to a variety of cutaneous irritants and allergens and a high prevalence of cutaneous problems. The objectives of this exploratory study were to characterize the exposures and determine the prevalence of cutaneous symptoms and findings in operating room personnel, and to examine relationships between exposure characteristics and cutaneous outcomes. A questionnaire and standardized hand examination were used to assess the exposures and cutaneous status of operating room personnel. 184 operating room staff (90% of the eligible population) were assessed. Current skin problems were reported by 26%. Hand examination revealed that 9% had findings consistent with eczema and 10% changes of moderate dryness. A variety of preventive practices were being used by those with symptoms or findings. Cutaneous problems are common in operating room personnel. The use of preventive strategies (changing the type of gloves worn or the type of soap used for scrubbing, the use of glove liners and emollients) varied between different groups. These workers might benefit from more education regarding cutaneous hazards, preventive stategies and the importance of appropriate investigation of these problems.