Topic

Outline

Teaching Methods/Aids

Time

Comments

Introduction

Present learner objectives

Explain method of evaluation

Lecture

5 min.

Use Mind Map instead of traditional outline.

Reactions To Latex

1.      Distinguish between reactions including symptoms & prevention for each:

o       Irritant dermatitis

o       Contact Dermatitis

o       Latex Allergy

Lecture/ slides/ pictures of irritant and contact dermatitis (if available)

10 min.

If class includes non-professionals, begin with basic explanation of allergic response reactions.

Products containing latex

1.      Explain source of latex (H. brasiliensis).

2.      Review manufacture of hard vs. soft (or dipped) latex products & explain chemical used in process can irritate skin.

3.      Review list of healthcare products containing latex.

4.      Discuss differences between latex and synthetic products.

5.      Discuss reduced-latex or hypo-allergenic and powder free products available.

6.      Include discussion of common household items containing latex.

Lecture/ slides/ handouts & class discussion

Game (identifying latex vs. synthetic products)

20 min.

Include samples of products in your facility made from latex and those made from synthetics.

GAME:  Put several products on table and ask class to identify products containing latex and those that are synthetic.

People At Risk

1.      Discuss relationship between frequency of latex exposure and development of allergy.

2.      Provide basic info on rates (incidence) of latex allergy among certain groups (spina bifida, urinary anomalies, healthcare workers, law enforcement, etc.)

Lecture/ slides/ handouts

10 min.

Review material using game such as Five Questions Review – see handout

Prevention

1.      Best protection against both reactions and allergy is AVOIDANCE.

2.      Discuss preventing measures:

o       Irritant – non-petroleum lubricant or cotton glove liners

o       Contact – glove liners, washing hands after glove removal, using powder-free and/or hypo-allergenic gloves

o       Allergy – AVOIDANCE

3.      Employee vs. employer responsibilities – include environmental cleaning.

Lecture/ slides/ handouts

Copies of facility policies and procedures pertinent to product use, alternatives, reporting problems, cleaning schedules to reduce environmental contamination ,etc.

20min.

Review locations and availability of alternative products for sensitive employees.

Provide handout, brochure or other tool participants can take with them with instructions on reducing reactions to latex.

If You Have A Latex Allergy

1.      Discuss reporting requirements.

2.      Explain need to avoid all latex products and areas of environmental contamination (e.g. surgery)

Lecture/ slides

5 min.

Evaluation

Post-test

Test or evaluation tool

10 min

pencil/paper test or word game