Latex allergy in women's health care.

Latex allergy in midwifery and women's health care is not a new concept, with numerous case reports documenting adverse reactions in pregnant women to natural rubber latex in the birthing room. The practising midwife, nurse and sonographer need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of latex allergy and the implications of a severe reaction to latex not only to the woman but also the unborn child.

Latex allergy. Considerations for the care of pediatric patients and employee safety.

Certain groups of patients and health care workers are at high risk for developing latex allergy. In the perioperative arena, there is an increased risk for this allergy due to the mode and frequency of latex exposure. Using a multidisciplinary team approach, nurses must institute policies and procedures for precautions to take with latex to ensure that patients and employees remain in a safe environment. Through education, research and collaboration with industry and health care professionals, latex sensitization can be minimized, and latex allergic reactions avoided.

Essentials of occupational contact dermatitis.

Occupational skin disease constitutes a disproportionately large percentage of all occupational illnesses. It is beneficial for the nurse to have a clear understanding of the relationship between the worker and occupational contact dermatitis. This article describes background information, diagnostic testing, and preventive measures.

'If it's wet, dry it; if it's dry, wet it'.

Wet, oozing lesions should be dried, dry lesions should be hydrated and lubricated. Soaks, Castellani's Paint and exposure to the air are effective methods of drying. Dry eczematous lesions can be treated with low patency topical steroids and emollient ointments. The occupational nurse can better treat and prevent dermatitis seen in industry by familiarizing herself with the various contact irritants and sensitizers found in the workplace.