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Latex sensitivity among perioperative nurses
S Zaza1, J M Reeder, L E Charles
1Epidemiology Program Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta.
To estimate the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical spectrum of adverse reactions to natural rubber latex-containing products among a national sample of perioperative nurses, the investigators administered a self-reporting questionnaire to a convenience sample of 2,200 members of the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc. Of the 1,738 nurses who responded, 369 (21%) reported latex reactions. Multivariate analysis identified a history of allergies to cosmetic powders, other allergies, chronic illnesses, and regular use of latex gloves as independent risk factors for reactions to latex-containing products. Localized reactions, such as contact dermatitis, were the reactions reported most commonly, although severe systemic reactions also were described.
To estimate the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical spectrum of adverse reactions to natural rubber latex-containing products among a national sample of perioperative nurses, the investigators administered a self-reporting questionnaire to a convenience sample of 2,200 members of the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc. Of the 1,738 nurses who responded, 369 (21%) reported latex reactions. Multivariate analysis identified a history of allergies to cosmetic powders, other allergies, chronic illnesses, and regular use of latex gloves as independent risk factors for reactions to latex-containing products. Localized reactions, such as contact dermatitis, were the reactions reported most commonly, although severe systemic reactions also were described.