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Implications for
latex sensitive
people
Gloves made from NRL are still
considered to provide the wearer
with the best protective barrier
with the added benefits of tactile
sensitivity and comfort. With
manufacturers now providing low
allergen gloves the incident rate of
latex sensitization has dramatically
reduced.
In a study conducted by Dr Henning
Allmers in German hospitals 9 , he
concluded that the preventative
measures to avoid occupational
NRL allergy, mainly the complete
replacement of powdered NRL
gloves by low protein, powder free
gloves and the use of NRL-free
materials by sensitized individuals,
provided for a successful secondary
prevention by keeping sensitized
healthcare workers in the workplace.
These preventative measures also
brought about a significant reduction
in the suspected cases of NRLcaused
occupational asthma and/or
skin symptoms for approximately
half of all the German hospital staff
involved in the Dr Allmers’ study.
Conclusions
Natural rubber latex gloves still
remain the barrier of choice
amongst healthcare professionals.
Manufacturers have developed
technologies that allow them to
produce low allergen gloves as well
as synthetic gloves.
High Temperature Post Washing
remains the most effective way to
reduce the NRL allergen content of
NRL gloves.
Providing low allergen powder free
gloves and synthetic alternatives,
to healthcare workers significantly
reduces the risk of sensitization.
Ansell Healthcare Europe N.V.
Riverside Business Park, Spey House, Boulevard International 55, B-1070 Brussels, Belgium
Tel. +32 (0) 2 528 74 00 Fax +32 (0) 2 528 74 01
http://www.anselleurope.com, E-mail info@eu.ansell.com
Paul Cacioli, Ph. D.
Ansell Limited
Level 3, 678 Victoria Street
Richmond, VIC 3121 Australia
Lai Hee Meng
Ansell Healthcare
Lot 16 Perisiaran Perusahaan
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Sha Alam, 40000 Malaysia
The Ansell name and logo are
trademarks owned by Ansell
Limited, or one of its affiliates.
© 2005 All Rights Reserved.
References
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(2004) 25 (8): 656-663.
3. ISO 12243:2003, Medical gloves made
from natural rubber latex – Determination
of extractable protein using modified
Lowry method.
4. ASTM D6499-03, Standard test method
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ASHA Press, Alexandria, VA.
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