Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Southern Clinics of Istanbul Eurasia, cilt.32, sa.3, ss.294-298, 2021 (Hakemli Dergi)
Objective: Adequate training and protective measures are some of the effective ways to preventi latex allergy. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge about latex allergy, behavioral patterns and the incidence of latex allergy. Methods: Four hundred ten healthcare workers (HCWs) were invited to participate in a survey and answer a questionnaire on the level of knowledge and protective methods of latex allergy. A second supplemental questionnaire was applied to 53 HCWs who were diagnosed with latex allergy or had symptoms of latex exposure. Results: The study population consisted of 410 HCWs; 240 (61.9%) were female and had a median working duration of 5 (IQR: 0.13–38) years. 74 (18%) HCWs described symptoms after latex exposure with a median working time of 34.5 (IQR: 21–50) years. Despite the symptoms, skin test was not performed 41 (78.8%) of 74 patients. When the knowledge levels of protection methods from the latex allergen were compared, research assistants and nurses were found to be more than the technicians (p=0.047, p=0.016, respectively). When the anxiety level was compared between occupational groups, it was significantly higher in nurses and technicians compared to research assistants (p=0.012, p=0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The data indicated that HCWs are not adequately informed about latex allergy, and comparing the occupational groups, this fact was more remarkable among technicians. Continuing education of HCWs regarding latex allergy, appropriate diagnostic tests in the presence of symptoms, and taking effective protective measures are essential steps in the fight against latex allergy