TheatrePracticeStandardsGeneric1

6. Induction of anaesthesia
• See Guidelines for the Anaesthetic Management of Patients with Latex Allergy
7. Intraoperatively
• The key is to avoid contact with latex on the skin, intravenously, by inhalation and
particularly by contact with mucous membranes, peritoneum and serosal surfaces.
• All staff must be aware of the need to maintain a latex free environment on the ward, in
transit, in theatre and recovery. For type 1 hypersensitivity consider recovery in theatre.
• The single most important precaution is to avoid any member of staff wearing latex
containing gloves.
8. Recovery
• For patients with known type 1 hypersensitivity consider recovery in the operating
theatre to mitigate the risk of exposure in other areas.
• For all other patients there is no requirement to bypass the recovery area.
9. What precautions should be taken with NRL-sensitive staff?
• Staff who consider that they have a possible hypersensitivity should be refer to
Occupational Health for screening.
• All general staff equipment, gloves, masks etc used in the operating department are
latex free, any replacement products considered must also be confirmed latex free
before purchase.
• Staff with known latex sensitivity must have regular review with their line manager and
Occupational Health, documented in their personal file.
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