Investigating the allergy to latex gloves and some factors among nurses in hospitals of Babol University of Medical Sciences 2020

The utilization of gloves is essential for safeguarding hands against contamination and minimizing the risk of transmitting microorganisms to both patients and healthcare personnel. This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of latex glove allergies and explore the associated symptoms, medical records, and contributing factors among nursing staff at Hospitals affiliated with Babol University of Medical Sciences.

In this descriptive-analytical study, the studied population included 324 (60 male and 264 female) nurses. Data was collected using a researcher-made questionnaire with confirmed validity and reliability. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22 software at a significance level of 0.05.

A significant correlation was observed between female gender and latex glove allergies. Furthermore, 41.5% of the subjects experienced hand dermatitis, 23.2% suffered from urticaria, 10.2% exhibited upper respiratory symptoms, and 1.2% reported lower respiratory symptoms. Notably, 138 staff members with a history of atopy displayed a significant association with dermatitis and urticaria related to latex gloves. Additionally, a significant relationship was identified between the daily use of latex gloves and urticaria. Anaphylactic shock occurred in 3.4% of the staff.

The most severe reaction to latex gloves was anaphylactic shock, although it was infrequent in this study. Hand dermatitis emerged as the most prevalent symptom associated with latex allergy. Furthermore, latex glove allergies were more prevalent among staff with a history of atopy or those who used latex gloves extensively on a daily basis.