Latex allergy in the OR

lcunn · Mar 1, 2004

Stehanie,

I work in an OR and I have a Latex allergy. I use powder free and latex free gloves. I rarely have a reaction. Our OR is Powder free and that helps, also according to the research powder free enviroment is the most important isuue for latex sensitive people working in our enviroment.

LA

I have been an RN in Florida for 15 years. I have thought pursuing OR nursing. However, now I have a latex allergy. My only symptoms are redness and itching on my hands. I have never had resp symptoms when I am near latex. Since non-latex gloves are available, would I be able to work in the OR?
Thanks,
Stephanie

Trauma Columnist · Mar 1, 2004

Many hospitals are trying to go latex-free entirely.

chartleypj · Mar 1, 2004

I'm also an OR nurse with a latex allergy; I avoid latex gloves.

If you persue this, be sure your OR has latex free masks; they bothered me more than the gloves did.

Good luck,

Paula

spineCNOR · Mar 2, 2004

Stephanie, it may well be possible for you to work in the OR if you take the proper precautions, but it would be a good idea to talk this over with your private doc, employee health or an allergy specialist, first to verify that you are allergic to latex, then determine where you need to go from there.

Good luck!

DNRme · Mar 11, 2004

First, see an allergist. There are different types of latex allergies. As an OR RN, I developed latex allergy after 12 years. A skin rxn may not be a true allergy, but can expose you to more latex protein if your skin breaks down, making you more likely to develop a true allergy. My allergist taught me a lot, really changed my life. I thought I would have to leave the hospital. I am now able to work with an antihistamine every day. Good Luck