Natural Rubber Latex Protein Allergy Prevention and Exposure Control

The Permanente Journal /Winter 1998/Volume 2 No. 1 The recently documented increasing incidence of natural rubber latex (Hevea brasiliensis protein allergy (HBPA) in health care workers and the general population has led several national organizations and governmental agencies to recommend that health care organizations: modify use of latex products, particularly gloves; implement mechanisms to identify persons with HBPA; and initiate strategies to mitigate HBPA development. To respond to this emerging challenge to patients and health care workers, the Kaiser Permanente California Division and Northwest Division developed the Western Divisions’ “Latex Protein Allergy Prevention and Exposure Control Plan.” This collaboratively developed plan builds on the Hawaii Division’s previous work and provides information regarding 1) identification of patients and health care workers with HBPA; 2) recommendations for creation of a health care environment that is safe for patients and health care workers with HBPA; and 3) to minimize the risk of developing HPBA (latex-safe strategies). Implementation of this plan should facilitate system-wide consistency in the evaluation, management, and care coordination of health plan members and health care workers with HBPA. As future health care issues require greater collaboration between physicians and non-physician support personnel, this collaborative effort could serve as a model for development of similar comprehensive clinical management and operational guidelines.