Knowledge about occupational latex allergy amongst Thai nurses and student nurses

Glove usage, particularly powdered latex glove is a cause of latex allergy in hospital workers; therefore those workers must have latex allergy knowledge to protect themselves and patients from serious health problems. This study aimed to examine knowledge about latex allergy among nurses and compare their performance with student nurses in Thailand. A knowledge questionnaire was administered to a random sample of 30 nurses and 30 student nurses who worked in hospitals where powdered latex gloves were used. Overall, nurses and student nurses gave correct responses to 27% and 28% of the questions, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in knowledge between nurses and student nurses. Both nurses and student nurses in Thailand have insufficient knowledge about latex allergy and its risk factors. Additional continuing education should be provided to reduce the probability of adverse reactions in sensitized staff and patients in Thai hospitals.