Latex Allergy protocols in the operating theatre (UK)

[Josephine]

These are extracts from Latex Allergy Support Group Guidance to Operating Theatres

Reactions to Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) affect all staff working in the perioperative environment because:

1. They have an increased risk of developing NRL allergy through the repeated use of NRL gloves
2. They may need to manage sensitised patients
3. They have a statutory responsibility to reduce risk of sensitisation in themselves, their colleagues and their patients

List planning

• The sensitised patient should be (wherever possible) first on the operating list.
• The anaesthetist and relevant theatre staff should be notified in sufficient time in advance of surgery to make effective preparation (see Preoperative medical assessment).

Providing a barrier between the patient and the NRL will reduce or remove risk e.g. cover sphygmomanometer tubing with a drill sleeve or stockinette.

The remaining equipment in the operating room should be cleared of any possible NRL contamination by washing with a mild detergent solution: NB it is important that NRL gloves are NOT worn for this task.

Dependent on the number of air changes within the operating room, sufficient time should be allowed to reduce any aerosolised NRL proteins in the atmosphere. Most theatres work with a minimum of 20 air changes an hour and in lamina flow theatres, this can be as high as 500 air changes an hour.

Drugs for the treatment of anaphylaxis should be readily available.

Staff in the vicinity should be warned of the patient status either by word of mouth or by notices posted at all entrances.

Where the patient cannot be anaesthetised or recovered in the operating room, these rooms must be prepared and signed as for the operating room.