Latex gloves have been used to prevent transmission of many infectious diseases
to healthcare workers. However, latex is hazardous to some healthcare workers, resulting
in a range of health effects from minor dermatitis to asthma, life-threatening anaphylaxis
and respiratory arrest, similar to a bee sting allergic reaction. Data indicate
that 8-12% of the healthcare worker population that use gloves are sensitized to
natural rubber latex compared with 1-6% of the general population. The FDA has reported
five healthcare worker deaths related to latex glove use.
Powdered latex gloves present an additional hazard because the latex proteins
in the glove attach to the glove donning powder and become aerosolized. A latex
allergic patient or sensitive worker cannot be safe in a powdered latex environment.
Because the only effective treatment for latex allergy is the complete avoidance
of contact with latex-containing products and powder, alternative glove barrier
materials are needed. Finding adequate barrier protection without harming the worker,
the patient or the environment is a challenge that lies at the intersection between
environmental and occupational health. Vinyl gloves are the most common and least
expensive substitute for latex exam gloves. Vinyl is an adequate barrier, if the
glove is intact, according to the CDC; however vinyl gloves break down easily and
are environmentally toxic. Other synthetic alternatives include nitrile, polyurethane,
neoprene and tactylon. Although latex has been considered the "gold standard",
other synthetic materials provide superior chemical barriers for handling chemotherapeutic
agents and other chemicals such as glutaraldehyde.
From 'Occupational Health and Safety,' by Susan Wilburn, MPH,
RN
On the Web
Latex Allergy. NIOSH Facts. June 1997.
www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/latex/
Latex Allergy links
www.latexallergylinks.org/
