Latex Allergy response

ADS

An allergic response to natural latex rubber products

Defining Characteristics:

Type I reactions:

• Immediate reactions (<1hour) to latex proteins (can be life threatening); 
• contact urticaria progressing to generalized symptoms; 
• edema of the lips, tongue, uvula, and/or throat; 
• shortness of breath; 
• tightness in chest; 
• wheezing; 
• bronchospasm leading to respiratory arrest; 
• hypotension; 
• syncope; 
• cardiac arrest

May also include:

• orofacial characteristics: 
• edema of sclera or eyelids, erythema and/or itching of the eyes, tearing of the eyes, nasal congestion, itching and /or erythema, rhinorrhea, facial erythema, facial twitching; 
• gastrointestinal characteristics: abdominal pain, nausea; 
• generalized characteristics: flushing, general discomfort, generalized edema, increasing complaint of total body warmth, restlessness

Type IV reactions:

• delayed onset: eczema; 
• irritation; 
• reaction to additives causes discomfort (e.g., thiram, carbamates); 
• redness; 
• delayed onset (hours)

Irritant reactions:

• erythema; 
• chapped or cracked skin; 
• blisters

Related Factors: No immune mechanism response

NOC Outcomes (Nursing Outcomes Classification)

Suggested NOC Labels

• Immune Hypersensitivity Control
• Symptom Severity
• Tissue Integrity: Skin and Mucous Membranes

Client Outcomes

• Identifies presence of latex allergy
• Lists history of risk factors
• Identifies type of reaction
• States reasons not to use or to have anyone use latex products
• Experiences a latex-free environment for all health care procedures
• Avoids areas where there is powder from latex gloves
• States the importance of wearing a Medic-Alert bracelet and wears one

NIC Interventions (Nursing Interventions Classification)

Suggested NIC Labels

• Allergy Management
• Latex Precautions