Os malefícios da "Luva Chupeta" de látex na Unidade Neonatal / The harmful effects of the latex "Glove Pacifier" in the Neonatal Unit / Los efectos nocivos del "Guante Chupete" de látex em La Unidad Neonatal

Na Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança-Neofoi proposto o uso da chupeta na Unidade Neonatal (UN) de modo terapêutico, e sempre com supervisão de um profissional de saúde. Mas observa-se que o aparato conhecido como "Luva Chupeta" fabricado com o uso de uma luva de látex está sendo utilizado como alternativa para acalentar o recém-nascido (RN). Apesar de poucos estudos, é evidente que esse dispositivo deve ser contraindicado na UN, uma vez que pode provocar alergia ao látex, transmitir infecções, provocar acidentes graves como aspiração laringotraqueal do algodão devido ao rompimento da luva de látex, e dependendo do tamanho do material, obstruir as vias aéreas, e levar a óbito. Além do mais, o dispositivo pode interferir negativamente no crescimento e no desenvolvimento craniofacial e causar prejuízos associados à amamentação e na saúde materno infantil. A substituição da "Luva Chupeta" por outras estratégias, até mesmo pela chupeta convencional ou ortodôntica, para lidar com a dor e situações de estresse do RN deve ser decisiva para evitar os riscos de acidentes graves. O Protocolo de uso de bicos, Protocolo de manejo da dor do RN, adoção do Método Canguru na UN para promoção do desenvolvimento e comportamento do RN, e a capacitação/monitoramento das práticas adotas pela Equipe Materno Infantil, quanto ao cuidado ofertado são alternativas mais complexas, mas que devem ser analisadas por aqueles que desejam oferecer confiabilidade aos seus processos institucionais. (AU)

In the Baby-Friendly Hospital-Neo Initiative, the use of pacifiers in the Neonatal Unit (UN) was proposed in a therapeutic way, and always under the supervision of a health professional. However, it should be noted that the device known as "Pacifier Glove" manufactured using a latex glove is being used as an alternative to cherish the newborn. Despite few studies, it is clear that this device should be contraindicated in the UN, since it can cause allergy to latex, transmit infections, cause serious accidents such as laryngotracheal aspiration of cotton due to the rupture of the latex glove, and depending on the size of the material, obstruct the airways, and lead to death. Furthermore, the device may interfere with craniofacial growth and development and cause harm associated with breastfeeding and maternal and child health. The substitution of the "Pacifier Glove" for other strategies, even for the conventional or orthodontic pacifier, to deal with the pain and stress situations of the baby should be avoided to avoid the risk of serious accidents.The teat use protocol, the baby's pain management protocol, the adoption of the Kangaroo Method in the neonatal unit to promote the baby's development and behavior, and the training/monitoring of the practices adopted by the Maternal and Child Team, regarding the care offered, are alternatives more complex, but which must be analyzed by those who wish to offer reliability to their institutional processes. (AU)

En la Iniciativa Hospital Amigo del Niño-Neo, se propuso terapéuticamente el uso del chupete en la Unidad Neonatal (UN), y siempre bajo la supervisión de un profesional de la salud. Pero se observa que el dispositivo conocido como "chupete Gluva", fabricado con el uso de un guante de látex, está siendo utilizado como una alternativa para cuidar al recién nacido (NB). A pesar de los pocos estudios, es evidente que este dispositivo debe estar contraindicado en la NU, ya que puede causar alergia al látex, transmitir infecciones, ocasionar accidentes graves como aspiración laringotraqueal de algodón por rotura del guante de látex, y dependiendo de la El tamaño del material obstruye las vías respiratorias y provoca la muerte. Además, el dispositivo puede interferir negativamente con el crecimiento y desarrollo craneofacial y causar daños asociados con la lactancia materna y la salud maternoinfantil. La sustitución del "Dummy Glove" por otras estrategias, incluso el chupete convencional u ortodóncico, para hacer frente a las situaciones de dolor y estrés del RN debe ser determinante para evitar el riesgo de accidentes graves. El Protocolo de Uso del Pezón, el Protocolo de Manejo del Dolor del RN, la adopción del Método Canguro en la NU para promover el desarrollo y comportamiento del RN, y la capacitación/seguimiento de las prácticas adoptadas por el Equipo Materno Infantil, en cuanto a los cuidados ofrecidos, son más alternativas eficientes, complejas, pero que deben ser analizadas por quienes deseen brindar confiabilidad a sus procesos institucionales. (AU)

Allergic contact hand dermatitis due to constituents of nitrile gloves

Purpose: This report of a case of allergic contact hand dermatitis due to constituents of nitrile gloves is to bring to the attention of practitioners four important practice points: 1) allergic contact dermatitis may occur due to exposure to chemicals in nitrile gloves; 2) skin patch testing is used to identify the causative allergens; 3) targeted allergens may be necessary in addition to the baseline European standard series if the standard series is unhelpful; and 4) there are potential interventions to manage nitrile glove dermatitis. Findings: A laboratory analyst had occupational exposure to several allergens and had worn latex gloves. She was exposed to laboratory chemicals and powdered ore dust, containing precious metals. She developed hand dermatitis and was relocated to administrative duties not requiring glove use. Her dermatitis cleared but recurred when she returned to the laboratory and started using nitrile gloves. On history, nitrile gloves and platinum group metal ore dust were consistently associated with her hand dermatitis, but laboratory chemicals were not. Latex-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) was negative, as were skin patch tests for 13 allergens in the metal series, including salts of platinum group metals. She had positive allergic reactions to cobalt chloride, formaldehyde, nickel sulphate, and quaternium 15 in the European standard series patch tests. She did not react to the rubber chemicals in the European standard series, including thiuram mix. The patient was then tested with the rubber additives series because of the glove-relatedness of her hand dermatitis. She had positive reactions to three thiuram compounds used as accelerators in rubber gloves. The patient went on vacation during which time her dermatitis improved. She was relocated to a position without glove use or ore contact and her dermatitis did not recur. Conclusions: An analytic laboratory worker developed hand allergic contact dermatitis due to nitrile glove constituents. The diagnosis is supported by the improvement in her dermatitis after cessation of glove use, negative metal series patch tests, and positive patch tests to accelerators found in rubber gloves. Nevertheless, a contribution to the dermatitis by metals in the platinum group metal ore dust cannot be excluded. Recommendations: Nitrile glove constituents should be considered in wearers who develop hand dermatitis. Skin patch testing is recommended to investigate putative agents. Specific patch test series for more targeted testing may be required

Rubbing ethanol and time of use: critical factors compromising latex gloves structure / Desinfecção com etanol e tempo de uso: fatores críticos que comprometem a estrutura das luvas de látex

Abstract Introduction Personal protective equipment is mandatory to protect patients and professionals from diseases, especially in the dental environment. The risk of gloves micro-perforations is imminent when using sharp instruments or cleaning them up during lengthy clinical procedures. Objective This study evaluated the integrity of sterile and non-sterile gloves before clinical use and clarified whether friction with disinfectant solution modifies surface morphology and integrity. Material and method Samples of gloves from four different brands were divided into two groups: (1) Sterile surgical gloves (n=260) and (2) Non-sterile gloves (n=260). They were scissored and placed in Ostby's arch so that three solutions - distilled water, ethanol 70°, ethanol 96° - were rubbed with a cotton swab. After 30s, 5, 10, and 15 minutes of solution rubbing, samples were verified by a Scanning Electron Microscope. The pore sizes were measured by Image J software. Result Regardless of the brands, all gloves have been significantly affected by solutions and assessment periods. In general, remarkable changes were evident with ethanol 70° and 96°, and higher pore diameters were observed compared to distilled water. Conclusion Rubbing disinfectant solutions increases gloves' pores sizes, and time negatively influenced its quality.

Resumo Introdução Para proteger pacientes e profissionais de doenças, o uso de equipamentos de proteção individual é obrigatório, principalmente no ambiente odontológico. O risco de microperfurações das luvas é iminente ao usar instrumentos cortantes ou na tentativa de limpar as luvas durante longos procedimentos clínicos. Objetivo Este estudo avaliou a integridade das luvas cirúrgicas e de procedimento antes do uso clínico e esclareceu se o atrito com a solução desinfetante modifica a morfologia e integridade da superfície. Material e método Amostras de luvas de quatro marcas diferentes foram divididas em dois grupos: (1) Luvas cirúrgicas (n = 260) e (2) Luvas descartáveis não estéreis (n = 260). As luvas foram cortadas e colocadas em arco de Ostby, de modo que três soluções - água destilada, etanol 70 °, etanol 96 ° foram esfregadas com um cotonete. Após 30s, 5, 10 e 15 minutos de fricção das soluções, as amostras foram verificadas utilizando um microscópio eletrônico de varredura. Os tamanhos dos poros foram medidos pelo software Image J. Resultado Independentemente das marcas, todas as luvas foram significativamente afetadas por soluções e períodos de avaliação. Em geral, maiores alterações foram evidenciadas com o uso do etanol 70° e 96°, e maiores diâmetros dos poros foram observados quando comparados à água destilada. Conclusão Esfregar soluções desinfetantes aumenta o tamanho dos poros das luvas e o tempo influenciou negativamente sua qualidade.

Zoonosis and veterinary waste disposal in rural practice / Zoonosis y disposición de desperdicios veterinarios en la práctica rural

The objectives of this study were to estimate: (a) the frequency of zoonoses in large animal veterinarians from rural areas of the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and (b) to describe the use and disposal of personal protective equipment (PPE) and selective veterinary clinical waste. A cross-sectional study was carried out on large animal veterinary practitioners in the Province of Buenos Aires (n = 106). One third (29.2%) of them had been diagnosed with a zoonosis by laboratory-methods, being brucellosis the most frequent (22.6%). The more years passed since their graduation, the greater the chances of becoming ill (p < 0.001). Gloves were the most adopted PPE; however, other elements had little or no use at all. Older and experienced professionals used PPE less frequently than young inexperienced practitioners. Some PPE was frequently reused and the final disposal of veterinary waste was often inappropriate. A change in behavior is an urgent need to preserve not only the veterinarians' health but also their families' wellbeing and to ensure proper disposal of potentially hazardous waste.

Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron los siguientes: a) estimar la frecuencia de zoonosis en veterinarios de grandes animales que desarrollan su labor en la provincia de Buenos Aires; b) describir el uso y la disposición de los elementos de protección personal (EPP) y otros residuos generados durante el trabajo de estos veterinarios. Para ello se realizó un estudio transversal en una muestra de 106 profesionales. En un tercio de ellos (29,2%) se había sido diagnosticado por métodos de laboratorio alguna zoonosis; la brucelosis fue la más frecuente (22,6%). Se encontró que a mayor tiempo transcurrido desde la graduación, mayor era la probabilidad de enfermarse (p< 0,001). Sobre la base de las respuestas obtenidas en cuestionarios estructurados, se determinó lo siguiente: que los guantes fueron el EPP más adoptado, mientras que otros elementos tuvieron escasa o nula adopción; que los profesionales de mayor edad y experiencia usaron EPP con menos frecuencia que los practicantes más jóvenes e inexpertos; y que algunos EPP se reutilizaban con frecuencia y que la eliminación final de los desechos veterinarios fue a menudo inapropiada. Considerando estos hallazgos, es claro que se requiere un cambio de comportamiento para preservar no solo la salud de los veterinarios, sino también para asegurar el bienestar de sus familias y garantizar la eliminación adecuada de los residuos potencialmente peligrosos.

Contribuições para a tecnovigilância das luvas de látex e a biossegurança / Contributions to the technovigilance of latex gloves and biosafety

As luvas são fundamentais para a proteção dos profissionais e pacientes contra a contaminação cruzada, especialmente no controle do risco de contato direto com fluidos corporais. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar um experimento in vitro acerca das propriedades físicas das luvas de procedimento de látex, comercializadas nacionalmente, visando produzir evidências científicas para o uso seguro em situações de assistência à saúde. Três lotes diferentes de cada uma das cinco marcas de luvas de procedimento de látex foram avaliados antes do uso quanto à integridade física (presença ou não de rasgos e/ou furos). Os protocolos padrão da Society for Testing and Materials e da Food and Drug Administration American consistiram em preencher cada uma das luvas com 1.000mL de água e inspecionar danos imediatamente e após dois minutos. Ainda, quantificar e comparar a perfusão de corante através das diferentes marcas de luvas por meio de um protocolo original desenvolvido com vistas a simular a punctura acidental por agulha. Inicialmente, uma punção venosa foi simulada em um recipiente contendo cristal violeta (CV) a 1% coberto com uma placa de gelatina a 8%, que simulou a pele humana. Uma microplaca de poliestireno 96 poços foi coberta com uma luva e depois perfurada com uma agulha com calibre de 0,80x30mm acoplada à uma seringa de 20mL contendo 5mL de CV a 1%. Os resultados foram expressos em frequências absolutas e relativas. Além disso, dados obtidos da perfusão do corante através das diferentes marcas de luvas foram submetidos aos testes de normalidade (Kolmogorov-Smirnov e Shapiro-Wilk) e, posteriormente, ao teste de U de Mann-Whitney por meio do software IBM SPSS Statistics (versão 25) e nível de significância ?=5%. As luvas das marcas D (1%) e C (9,2 e 9,4%) apresentaram o melhor e o pior dos resultados de rasgos e/ou furos nas inspeções imediata e após dois minutos, respectivamente. Um total de 7% (n=21) dos rasgos e/ou furos da marca C ocorreram em um dedo/região das luvas, enquanto que 1,3% (n=4) estavam danificadas/rasgadas. A marca D permaneceu com o melhor resultado, pois apresentou somente 1% (n=3) de rasgos e/ou furos em um dedo/região. Os valores medianos das absorbâncias de todas as marcas de luva de procedimento de látex perfuradas foram inferiores ao valor mediano da absorbância da perfuração sem luva, confirmando uma retenção do cristal violeta através de todas as marcas de luva avaliadas (p<0,001). As luvas da marca E apresentaram a maior porcentagem de retenção do cristal violeta dentre todas as marcas (77,2%), seguida das luvas da marca B (65,6%). Em contrapartida, as luvas da marca D sinalizaram a menor porcentagem de retenção do cristal violeta (14,6%). Em conclusão, todas as marcas de luvas de procedimento de látex avaliadas apresentaram danos físicos com maior frequência na região entre os dedos. Ainda, em condições in vitro, as luvas de procedimento de látex mesmo depois de perfuradas barraram parcialmente a carga do material inoculado

Gloves are fundamental for professionals' and patients' protection against crosscontamination, especially in control of risk of contact with corporal fluids. The objective of this study was to perform an in vitro experiment about physical properties of latex procedure gloves, marketed nationally, aiming to produce scientific evidences for the safe use in health care situations. Three different batches of each one of five brands of latex procedure gloves were evaluated before and after the use regarding physical integrity (presence or absence of tears and/or holes). The standard protocols of Society for Testing and Materials and of Food and Drug Administration American consisted in fill each one of the gloves with 1,000mL of water and inspect damages immediately and after two minutes. Also, to quantify and compare dye infusion through different glove brands via an original protocol developed to simulate the accidental puncture by needle. Initially, a venipuncture was simulated in a receptacle containing crystal violet (CV) at 1% covered with a gel plate at 8%, that simulated the human skin. A 96-well polystyrene microplate was covered with a glove and then pierced by a needle with 0.80x30mm caliber coupled to a 20mL syringe containing 5mL of CV at 1%. The results were expressed in absolute and relative frequencies. Moreover, the data obtained from the dye infusion through different glove brands were submitted to normality tests (Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk) and, later, to Mann-Whitney U test through IBM SPSS Statistics (version 25) software and ?=5% significance level. The gloves of brands D (1%) and C (9.2 and 9.4%) presented the best and the worst of the tears and/or holes results in the immediate and after two minutes inspections, respectively. A total of 7% (n=21) of tears and/or holes of brand C happened in one glove finger/region, while 1.3% (n=4) were damaged/torn. The brand D remained with the best result because presented only 1% (n=3) of tears and/or holes in one finger/region. The median values of absorbances of all brands of perforated latex procedure gloves were lower than the median value of absorbance of gloveless perforation, confirming a retention of crystal violet through all evaluated glove brands (p<0.001). The gloves of brand E presented the highest percentage of retention of crystal violet within all brands (77.2%), followed by gloves of brand B (65.6%). Conversely, the gloves of brand D indicated the lowest percentage of retention of crystal violet (14.6%). In conclusion, all brands of evaluated latex procedure gloves presented physical damages with higher frequency in the region between the fingers. Also, in in vitro conditions, the latex procedure gloves even after perforated partially blocked the load of inoculated material

Herramientas manuales vibrátiles y guantes anti-vibrátiles / Vibrating hand tools and anti-vibrating gloves

OBJETIVO: Determinar el impacto causado por el tipo de herramienta y tipo de guante sobre la transmisibilidad de la vibración mano-brazo. MÉTODOS: Se realizó un diseño experimental a trabajadores del sector de hidrocarburos, con el objetivo de identificar la transmisibilidad global de los guantes en diferentes actividades. Las mediciones se realizaron a través de dos acelerómetros: uno instalado en la máquina y otro en la palma de la mano. La transmisibilidad fue calculada en el rango de frecuencias 0-2 kHz, para cinco tipos de herramientas y 3 tipos de guantes. Finalmente, se compararon los tiempos de exposición a los que puede estar expuesto el trabajador con el uso de los guantes. RESULTADOS: Se identificó la efectividad de los guantes para proteger a los operarios, permitiéndoles trabajar un mayor número de horas por día. El análisis estadístico evidencia que la variable tipo de herramienta tiene un efecto significativo sobre la transmisibilidad, mientras que el tipo de guante no presenta efecto estadístico alguno. El estudio presenta los porcentajes de aumento de tiempos de exposición y el estudio de las transmisibilidades. CONCLUSIONES: Los tres tipos de guantes evaluados mostraron tener un desempeño eficaz como atenuadores de la vibración. El aumento del tiempo de exposición permitido al usar guantes es muy significativo para todas las herramientas.

OBJECTIVE: Determine the impact caused by the type of tool and type of glove on the transmissibility of the hand-arm vibration. METHODS: An experimental design was carried out for workers in the hydrocarbon sector, in order to identify the global transmissibility of gloves in different activities. The measurements were made through two accelerometers: one installed in the machine and the other in the palm of the hand. The transmissibility was calculated in the fre quency range 0-2 kHz, for five types of tools and 3 types of gloves. Finally, the exposure times to which the worker may be exposed with the use of gloves were compared. RESULTS: The effectiveness of the gloves was identified to protect the workers, allowing them to work a greater number of hours per day. The statistical analysis shows that the variable type of tool has a significant effect on transmissibility, while the type of glove does not have any statistical effect. The study presents the percentages of increase in exposure times and the study of transmissibilities. CONCLUSIONS: The three types of gloves evaluated showed an effec tive performance as vibration attenuators. The increase of the expo sure time allowed when wearing gloves is very significant for all tools.

Rubber gloves biodegradation by a consortium, mixed culture and pure culture isolated from soil samples

Abstract An increasing production of natural rubber (NR) products has led to major challenges in waste management. In this study, the degradation of rubber latex gloves in a mineral salt medium (MSM) using a bacterial consortium, a mixed culture of the selected bacteria and a pure culture were studied. The highest 18% weight loss of the rubber gloves were detected after incubated with the mixed culture. The increased viable cell counts over incubation time indicated that cells used rubber gloves as sole carbon source leading to the degradation of the polymer. The growth behavior of NR-degrading bacteria on the latex gloves surface was investigated using the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The occurrence of the aldehyde groups in the degradation products was observed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis. Rhodococcus pyridinivorans strain F5 gave the highest weight loss of rubber gloves among the isolated strain and posses latex clearing protein encoded by lcp gene. The mixed culture of the selected strains showed the potential in degrading rubber within 30 days and is considered to be used efficiently for rubber product degradation. This is the first report to demonstrate a strong ability to degrade rubber by Rhodococcus pyridinivorans.

Hands hygiene and the use of gloves by nursing team in hemodialysis service / Higiene de las manos y el uso de guantes por la enfermería en hemodiálises / Higiene das mãos e uso de luvas pela enfermagem em hemodiálise

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the adhesion of the nursing team to the practice of hands hygiene (HH) and the use of latex gloves in a hemodialysis service. Method: this is a descriptive-exploratory study with a quantitative approach, performed between August and October 2016 in a hemodialysis service in the countryside of São Paulo State, Brazil, where the nursing team adhered to HH and the use of gloves. All ethical aspects have been contemplated. Results: there were 1090 opportunities for HH, with the adhesion rate being only 16.6%. Regarding the use of gloves, of the 510 opportunities observed, there was correct use in 45%, reuse in 25% and absence of latex gloves in 29% of the time. Conclusion: the rate of HH and adherence to gloves is far from ideal, contributing to the increased risk of infection for both the user and the professional.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la adhesión del equipo de enfermería a la práctica de higienización de las manos (HM) y al uso de guantes en un servicio de hemodiálisis. Método: el estudio descriptivo-exploratorio y cuantitativo, realizado entre agosto y octubre de 2016 en un servicio de hemodiálisis del interior del estado de São Paulo, Brasil, donde se observó la adhesión del equipo de enfermería a la HM y al uso de guantes. Todos los aspectos éticos fueron contemplados. Resultados: se observó 1090 oportunidades de HM, siendo la tasa de adhesión de apenas el 16,6%. En cuanto al uso de guantes, de las 510 oportunidades observadas, hubo utilización correcta en un 45%, la reutilización en un 25% y ausencia del uso de guantes en un 29%. Conclusion: la tasa de HM y la adhesión al uso de guantes están muy por debajo del ideal, contribuyendo al aumento del riesgo de infección, tanto para el usuario y para el profesional.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a adesão da equipe de enfermagem à prática de higienização das mãos (HM) e ao uso de luvas em um serviço de hemodiálise. Método: estudo descritivo-exploratório de abordagem quantitativa, realizado entre agosto e outubro de 2016 em um serviço de hemodiálise do interior do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, onde foi observada a adesão da equipe de enfermagem à HM e ao uso de luvas. Todos os aspectos éticos foram contemplados. Resultados: observou-se 1090 oportunidades de HM, sendo a taxa de adesão de apenas 16,6%. Quanto ao uso de luvas, das 510 oportunidades observadas, houve utilização correta em 45%, a reutilização em 25% e ausência do uso de luvas em 29% das vezes. Conclusão: a taxa de HM e a adesão ao uso de luvas estão muito aquém do ideal, contribuindo para o aumento do risco de infecção, tanto para o usuário como para o profissional.

Serologic Survey and Risk Factors for Coxiella burnetii Infection among Dairy Cattle Farmers in Korea

BACKGROUND: The zoonotic disease Q fever is caused by Coxiella burnetii and usually affects high-risk human populations. We conducted a serological survey of dairy cattle farmers in Korea to determine seroreactivity and identify risk factors for C. burnetii infection. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 1,824 of 7,219 dairy cattle farms (25.3%) in the study region. The selected dairy cattle farmers visited the nearest public health centers or branches with completed questionnaires. Serum samples from the farmers were tested using an indirect immunofluorescence assay to detect phase II C. burnetii immunoglobulin (Ig) G or M antibodies. RESULTS: A total of 1,222 dairy cattle farmers from 784 dairy cattle farms (43.0%) participated in this study, and 11.0% (134/1,222) exhibited seroreactivity, defined as a phase II antigen IgG or IgM titer ≥ 1:16. In the multivariate analysis, male sex, residence in Gyeonggi Province, a larger herd size, and ocular/oral contact with birth products during calf delivery were significantly associated with a higher risk of C. burnetii infection. Furthermore, the risk was significantly lower among farmers who always wore protective gloves while cleaning cattle excretion, compared to those who sometimes or rarely wore protective gloves. CONCLUSION: Dairy cattle farmers should exercise caution by avoiding ocular/oral contact with birth products during calf delivery and by using protective equipment (including gloves).

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii contamination in an intensive care unit

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Acinetobacter baumannii is a major pathogen causing infections in intensive care units (ICUs). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the presence of A. baumannii in an ICU environment and gloves from ICU workers and to characterize the antimicrobial resistance of the isolates in comparison with those isolated from ICU patients at the same hospital. METHODS: ICU samples were collected from March to November 2010. Isolates biochemically characterized as Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-Acinetobacter baumannii complex were evaluated by PCR targeting the 16S rDNA and bla OXA-51 genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined using the disk diffusion method, and carbapenem-resistant isolates were also evaluated for the minimum inhibitory concentration of imipenem using broth microdilution. The presence of the bla OXA-23 gene was evaluated in isolates with reduced susceptibility to carbapenems. RESULTS: A. baumannii was detected in 9.5% (84) of the 886 samples collected from the ICU environment, including from furniture, medical devices, and gloves, with bed rails being the most contaminated location (23.8%; 20/84). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) A. baumannii was found in 98.8% (83/84) of non-clinical and 97.8% (45/46) of clinical isolates. Reduced susceptibility to carbapenems was detected in 83.3% (70/84) of non-clinical and 80.4% (37/46) of clinical isolates. All isolates resistant to carbapenems harbored bla OXA-23. CONCLUSIONS: We found a strong similarity between the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of non-clinical and clinical A. baumannii isolates. Such data highlight the ICU environment as a potential origin for the persistence of MDR A. baumannii, and hence the ICU may be a source of hospital-acquired infections caused by this microorganism.

Biossegurança em serviço de embelezamento: conhecimento e práticas em uma capital do nordeste brasileiro / Bioseguridad en los centros de embellecimento: conocimientos y prácticas en una capital del nordeste brasileño / Biosafety in beauty centers: knowledge and practices in a state capital in Northeast Brazil

Resumo OBJETIVO Avaliar o conhecimento e as práticas de biossegurança adotadas por profissionais do segmento da beleza. MÉTODOS Pesquisa descritiva do tipo survey. Foram entrevistados 238 profissionais de serviços de embelezamento entre agosto de 2014 e 2015. As variáveis foram apresentadas por meio de frequências absolutas e relativas, bem como média e desvio padrão. RESULTADOS 62,6% dos profissionais tiveram contato com sangue de clientes sem uso de luvas; instrumentais para o atendimento e 32,8% dos entrevistados não utilizaram equipamentos de proteção individual durante suas atividades laborais. CONCLUSÕES As doenças mais citadas quanto ao risco de contágio e de transmissão na prática laboral foram as hepatites virais, HIV e fungos. Quanto aos procedimentos de biossegurança adotados, o autoclave é o equipamento menos usado na esterilização dos instrumentos.

Resumen OBJETIVO Evaluar el conocimiento y las prácticas de bioseguridad adoptadas por profesionales del segmento del embellecimiento. MÉTODOS Evaluar el conocimiento y las prácticas de bioseguridad adoptadas por profesionales del segmento del embellecimiento. RESULTADOS: 62,6% de los profesionales tuvieron contacto con sangre de clientes sin el uso de guantes; el 74,4% higienizaban las manos entre los atendimientos, el 16,8% reutilizaban materiales desechables. Ningún profesional informó la cantidad adecuada de instrumentos y el 32,8% de los entrevistados no utilizaban equipos de protección individual durante sus actividades laborales. CONCLUSIONES Las enfermedades más citadas con respecto al riesgo de contagio y de transmisión en la práctica laboral fueron las hepatitis virales, el VIH y los hongos. Acerca de los procedimientos de bioseguridad adoptados, el autoclave fue el aparato menos utilizado en la esterilización de los instrumentos.

Abstract OBJECTIVE To evaluate the knowledge and biosafety practices adopted by professionals of the beauty segment. METHODS Descriptive study, of survey type. 238 professionals of the beauty segment were interviewed between August 2014 and 2015. The variables were expressed by means of absolute and relative frequencies, as well as average and standard deviation. RESULTS 62.6% of the interviwed professionals reported having had contact with blood from customers when they were not wearing gloves; 74.4% said they washed their hands before and after each service, and only 16.8% of the respondents reported reusing nonsterilizable materials. None of them was able to inform the correct number of sets of tools needed , and 32.8% of the respondents did not use Personal Protective Equipment during their work activities. CONCLUSIONS The most frequently reported diseases associated with the risk of infection and transmission in the work activities were viral hepatitis, HIV and fungi. Regarding the biosafety procedures adopted, autoclave is the least used method for sterilizing devices. Keywords: Beauty and aesthetics centers. Exposure to biological agents. Prevention of diseases.

Frequency of Burns by Body Parts of Firefighters and Hospitalization Rate according to the Type of Protective Clothing

PURPOSE: Fire suits are very important protective equipment for firefighters. In fire scene, radiant heat and warmed water invade into conventional protective clothing gap. The safety of firefighters has long been a hot topic in Korea. Nevertheless, there are still lack of researches and investigations for safety of firefighters. We revealed the characteristics of the burn site and the hospitalization of injured firefighters according to the wearing of the conventional and special protective clothing. METHODS: This study analyzed the data obtained from the online survey (ko.surveymonkey.com) from September 19, 2016 to October 21, 2016 for nationwide firefighters who are cooperating with the National Security Agency. 4,891 firefighters responded to the questionnaire and 424 burn victims were reported. The analysis was conducted with 322 except 102 incomplete responders. The obtained data was analyzed with Chi-square test (P<0.05). RESULTS: The most common site of burn injury during firefighting was hand 166 (51.6%) followed by face 79 (24.5%), neck 55 (17.1%) and wrist 49 (15.2%). The number of people wearing conventional protective clothing was 81 (25.2%) and the number of people wearing special protective clothing was 20 (6.2%). The number of people wearing protective gloves was 247 (76.7%). In terms of protective clothing in injured firefighters, special protective clothing showed lower hospitalization rate comparing with conventional protective clothing (24.7% vs. 5.0%, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The most common site of burn injury in Firefighters is hand. The special protective clothing showed lower hospitalization rate comparing with conventional protective clothing.

Mejores prácticas para el lavado y manipulación de la bolsa de alimentación enteral Kangaroo / Best practices for washing and handling of the bag Kangaroo enteral feeding / Melhores práticas para a lavagem e manuseio do saco alimentação enteral Kangaroo

ResumenIntroducción: La nutrición enteral es una valiosa herramienta en la terapia de los pacientes hospitalizados, especialmente en las unidades de cuidado intensivo y en pacientes que, por sus patologías, pierden su habilidad de ingerir alimentos.Metodología: se aplicó la metodología que señala la práctica clínica basada en evidencia (PCBE) que trata de localizar hallazgos que respondan a la pregunta clínica planteada mediante el estudio y análisis de investigaciones primarias y originales de alta calidad científica.Resultados: Ningún estudio respondió directamente a la pregunta, sin embargo, varias investigaciones aluden que el lavado de manos y el uso de guantes limpios funcionan como estrategia para la manipulación y lavado de este dispositivo. La calidad de los estudios encontrados es baja ya que provienen de investigaciones basadas en la opinión de expertos y revisión de literatura de poca calidad.Conclusiones:No se encuentra evidencia significativa que respalde el uso de técnica aséptica médica y quirúrgica para el manejo y lavado de la bolsa Kangaroo de alimentación enteral.

AbstractIntroduction. Enteral nutrition is a valuable tool in the therapy of hospitalized, especially in intensive care units, and patients for their diseases lose their ability to ingest food patients.Method. The methodology pointing evidence-based clinical practice (PCBE) dealing with the study and analysis of primary and original research of high scientific quality, locating findings that respond to the clinical question posed was applied.Results. No study directly answer the question, however, several investigations allude to the fact that washing hands and using clean gloves as a strategy for handling and washing of this device. The quality of the studies found is low because they come from research based on expert opinion and literature review of low quality.Conclusion. No significant evidence to support the use of medical and surgical aseptic technique for handling and washing Kangaroo Enteral feed bag was found.

ResumoIntrodução.Enteral nutrition é uma ferramenta valiosa na terapia de hospitalizadas, especialmente em unidades de cuidados intensivos, e os pacientes para suas doenças perdem a sua capacidade de ingerir alimentos pacientes.Método. A metodologia apontando prática clínica baseada em evidências (PCBE) lidar com o estudo e análise de pesquisa primária e original de elevada qualidade científica, localização de resultados que respondam à questão clínica proposta foi aplicada.Resultado. Nenhum estudo responder diretamente a questão, no entanto, várias investigações fazem alusão ao fato de que lavar as mãos e usar luvas limpas como uma estratégia para a manipulação e lavagem deste dispositivo. A qualidade dos estudos encontrados é baixa, porque eles vêm de uma pesquisa com base em opinião de especialistas e revisão da literatura de baixo qualidade.Conclusão.Nenhuma evidência significativa para apoiar o uso da técnica médica e cirúrgica asséptica para manusear e lavar o saco de alimentação Canguru Enteral foi encontrado.

Utilização das luvas na prática de enfermagem e suas implicações: estudo metodológico / Glove use in nursing practice and its implications: a methodological study / Utilización de los guantes en la práctica de enfermería y sus implicaciones: estudio metodológico

Este artigo originou-se da segunda categoria que emergiu na Dissertação de Mestrado Profissional intitulada "Tecnologia educacional como estratégia para o uso de luvas pelos profissionais de Enfermagem visando a precaução de contato",apresentada à banca examinadora da Escola de Enfermagem Aurora de Afonso Costa (UFF). OBJETIVO: identificar os fatores que interferem na adesão e/ou adequação às medidas de precaução de contato na utilização das luvas de procedimentos e estéreis pela equipe de enfermagem. MÉTODO: estudo metodológico com abordagem quantiqualitativa. Com um total de 66 participantes distribuídos em 4 etapas. NA 1ª etapa, foram entrevistados 45 profissionais de enfermagem das clínicas cirúrgicas em um hospital universitário entre janeiro e março de 2014. RESULTADOS: 93% dos profissionais apontam falhas no uso de luvas, e somente 7% não observam falhas. CONCLUSÃO: a adequação no uso de luvas é determinante para a segurança do paciente, do profissional, da sociedade e do ambiente.

This article originated from the second category that emerged on the professional master's dissertation entitled "Educational technology as a strategy for the use of gloves by nursing professionals aiming the contact precaution", presented to the Review Board of the nursing school Aurora de Afonso Costa, Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF ­ Fluminense Federal University). AIM: to identify the factors that interfere in the adhesion and/or adequacy of the precautionary contact measures in the use of procedure sterile gloves by the nursing team. METHOD: this is a methodological study using a quantitative approach, with a total of 66 participants distributed in four stages. In the first stage, 45 nursing professionals from the surgical clinics were interviewed in a university hospital between January and March 2014. RESULTS: 93% of the professionals report a failure in the use of gloves and only 7% do not observe failures. CONCLUSION: the suitability of gloves is crucial for the safety of patients, professionals, society and the environment.

Este artículo se originó de la segunda categoría que surgió en laDisertación de Maestría Profesional titulada "Tecnología educacional como estrategia para el uso de guantes por los profesionales de Enfermería buscando la precaución de contacto", presentada a la banca examinadora de la E scuela de E nfermería A urora de Afonso Costa (UFF). OBJETIVO: identificar los factores que interfieren en la adhesión y/o adecuación a las medidas de precaución de contacto en la utilización de los guantes de procedimientos y estériles por el equipo de enfermería. MÉTODO: estudio metodológico con abordaje cuanticualitativo. Con un total de 66 participantes distribuidos en 4 etapas. En la 1ª etapa, fueron entrevistados 45 profesionales de enfermería de las clínicas quirúrgicas en un hospital universitario entre enero y marzo de 2014. RESULTADOS: 93% de los profesionales apuntan fallas en el uso de guantes, y solamente 7% no observan fallas. CONCLUSIÓN: la adecuación en el uso de guantes es determinante para la seguridad del paciente, del profesional, de la sociedad y del ambiente.

Analysis of YouTube videos about urinary catheterization technique of male delay / Análisis de los vídeos en YouTube sobre la técnica de cateterismo vesical por retención de orina en el hombre / Análise de vídeos do YouTube sobre a técnica de cateterismo urinário de demora masculino

Objective.To analyze the execution of urinary catheterization technique of male delay in YouTube videos. Methods. This is an exploratory research with a quantitative approach, performed using the YouTube sharing site. The search of the videos was conducted in September 2014, using the controlled descriptor "urinary catheterization". Results. 32 videos were analyzed, none were in accordance with the standards established in the literature; among the main errors highlight the absence of hand washing (78.1%), the absence of the medical recording (71.8%), the absence of cleaning and drying of the patient at the end of the procedure (71.8%), the incorrect technique during antisepsis (62.5%) and the absence of gloves changes (59.3%). Conclusion. Although the YouTube sharing video site is currently a widespread tool, there is an absence of videos that reproduce the technique according to what is recommended in the literature.

Objetivo.Analizar la ejecución de la técnica de cateterismo vesical por retención de orina en el hombre en los vídeos en YouTube. Métodos. Estudio exploratório de abordaje cuantitativo realizado en el sitio web YouTube. Se realizó uma búsqueda de los vídeos en septiembre de 2014 utilizando el descriptor controlado "cateterismo urinario". Resultados. Fueron analizados 32 vídeos, de los cuales ninguno estaba de acuerdo con los patrones establecidos por la literatura. Entre los principales errores encontrados se destacan: la ausencia de lavado de las manos (78.1%), falta de registro en la historia clínica (71.8%), ausencia de limpieza y secado del paciente al terminar del procedimento (71.8%), técnica incorrecta durante la antisepsia (62.5%) y falta de cambio de guantes (59.3%). Conclusión. Aunque sitio web YouTube es una herramienta ampliamente difundida atualmente, hay carencia de vídeos que reproduzcan la técnica de acuerdo con los patrones establecidos en la literatura.

Objetivo.Analisar a execução da técnica de cateterismo urinário de demora masculino nos vídeos do YouTube. Métodos. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória, de abordagem quantitativa, realizada no sítio de compartilhamento YouTube. A busca dos vídeos foi realizada em setembro de 2014, utilizando-se o descritor controlado "cateterismo urinário". Resultados. Foram analisados 32 vídeos, dos quais nenhum estava de acordo com os padrões estabelecidos pela literatura; dentre os principais erros encontrados, destacam-se a ausência de lavagem das mãos (78.1%), a falta de registro no prontuário (71.8%), a ausência de limpeza e secagem do paciente no término do procedimento (71.8%), a técnica incorreta durante antissepsia (62.5%) e a falta de troca de luvas (59.3%). Conclusão. Apesar de o sítio de compartilhamentos de vídeo YouTube ser uma ferramenta amplamente difundida atualmente, há uma carência de vídeos que reproduzam a técnica de acordo com o que é preconizado na literatura.

Use of Protective Gloves in Nail Salons in Manhattan, New York City / 예방의학회지

OBJECTIVES: Nail salon owners in New York City (NYC) are required to provide their workers with gloves and it is their responsibility to maintain healthy, safe working spaces for their employees. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency with which nail salon workers wear protective gloves. METHODS: A Freedom of Information Law request was submitted to New York Department of State's Division of Licensing Services for a full list of nail salons in Manhattan, NYC. A sample population of 800 nail salons was identified and a simple random sample (without replacement) of 30% (n=240) was selected using a random number generator. Researchers visited each nail salon from October to December of 2015, posing as a potential customer to determine if nail salon workers were wearing gloves. RESULTS: Among the 169 salons in which one or more workers was observed providing services, a total of 562 workers were observed. For 149 salons, in which one or more worker was observed providing services, none of the workers were wearing gloves. In contrast, in six of the salons observed, in which one or more workers was providing services, all of the workers (1 in 2 sites, 2 in 1 site, 3 in 2 sites, and 4 in 1 site) were wearing gloves. Almost three-quarters of the total number of workers observed (n=415, 73.8%) were not wearing gloves. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study indicate that, despite recent media attention and legislation, the majority of nail salon workers we observed were not wearing protective gloves when providing services.

Gender Reassignment Surgery in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Patients: A Report of Two Cases

It is believed that surgery on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients is dangerous and should be avoided due to the possibility of postoperative infection of the patients or HIV occupational transmission to the medical staff. We discuss here the preparations and measures needed to conduct surgery safely on HIV-positive patients, based on our experience. We performed sex reassignment surgery on two HIV-positive patients from January 2013 to January 2015. Both of them were receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy and were asymptomatic, with a normal CD4 count (>500 cells/microL). The HIV-RNA was undetectable within the bloodstream. All the staff wore protective clothing, glasses, and three pairs of protective gloves in the operating room because of the possibility of transmission. Prophylactic antibiotics were administered to the patients, and antiviral therapy was performed during their perioperative course. Neither of the patients had postoperative complications, and none of the medical staff experienced accidental exposure. Both patients had satisfactory surgery outcomes without complications. HIV-positive patients can undergo surgery safely without increased risk of postoperative complications or HIV transmission to the staff through the proper use of antibiotics, active antiretroviral therapy, and supplemental protective measures with post-exposure prophylaxis for the staff in case of HIV exposure.

Tecnologia educacional como estratégia para o uso de luvas pelos profissionais de enfermagem visando a precaução de contato / Educational technology as a strategy for the use of gloves by nursing professionals aiming at contact precaution

A infecção relacionada à assistência à saúde (IRAS) é considerada um problema de saúde pública em esfera mundial. Assim, torna-se preponderante a intervenção nos cuidados e prevenção destes agravos. Diante desta prerrogativa, o estudo tem como objeto: a precaução de contato a partir de uma tecnologia educacional (TE), visando o uso de luvas pelos profissionais de enfermagem. Objetivo geral: propor uma TE em forma de mídia audiovisual visando à adequação e/ou adesão dos profissionais de enfermagem às medidas de precaução de contato, foco em luvas. Objetivos específicos: identificar os fatores que interferem na adesão e/ou adequação às medidas de precaução de contato na utilização das luvas de procedimentos e estéreis pela equipe de enfermagem; elaborar uma TE visando adesão e adequação dos profissionais de enfermagem às medidas de precaução de contato, foco em luvas, a partir das falas dos profissionais; validar uma TE em forma de mídia audiovisual, visando adequação e adesão às medidas de precaução de contato com foco nas luvas. Metodologia: pesquisa de abordagem quantiqualitativa do tipo metodológica. O cenário da pesquisa foi o Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro da Universidade Federal Fluminense. Os participantes foram 66 profissionais distribuídos em quatro etapas do estudo. Para elaboração e validação da TE, a coleta de dados ocorreu nas quatro etapas. A 1ª etapa: realizaram-se entrevistas e a análise temática segundo Bardin. Critérios de inclusão: profissionais de enfermagem da clínica cirúrgica, diaristas ou plantonistas, estatutários ou contratados, em exercício. Critérios de exclusão: profissionais em férias e/ou licenças médicas; 2ª etapa: elaboração da TE a partir das categorias que emergiram da primeira etapa; 3ª etapa: validação de TE. Nesta etapa foram utilizados instrumentos de validação, escala Likert, respondidos por juízes especialistas e público alvo. Os itens do instrumento analisados receberam diferentes valorações em cada bloco, sendo considerados válidos os itens que obtiveram concordância maior ou igual a 70% pelos avaliadores desta etapa; 4ª etapa: adequação da TE a partir da avaliação dos profissionais. Resultados: a partir da fala dos profissionais emergiram três categorias, a saber: Conhecimento geral acerca do uso de luvas; A utilização das luvas na prática de enfermagem e suas implicações; Avaliação do material das luvas. A partir destas categorias, foi elaborada uma TE em forma de mídia audiovisual, cuja validação dos resultados atingiu índice de concordância superior a 80%. Conclui-se que a elaboração e aplicação de TE voltadas para o ensino e aprendizagem do profissional são primordiais para a segurança do paciente, do profissional e do ambiente, minimizando os riscos de infecções cruzadas

The Infection related to health care (IRAS) is considered a public health problem in the whole world. Thus, a major intervention in the care and prevention of these diseases is of utmost importance. In the view of this prerogative, the current object of this study is: the contact precautions as an educational technology (ET), to the use of gloves by nursing professionals. Overall objective: to propose an ET in audiovisual media format in order to improve adhesion/adjustments of nursing professionals to contact precautions, focusing in the use of gloves. Specific objectives: to identify the factors that influence in adherence and/or adequacy for contact precautions with the use of procedure and sterile gloves by nursing staff; to develop an ET aiming at adherence and adequacy of nursing professionals to contact precautions, focusing in the use of gloves, from the speeches of professionals; to validate an ET in audiovisual media format, aiming to adequacy and adherence to contact precautions focused in the use of gloves. Methodology: Research with quantiqualitative approach of methodological type. The research scenario was the Antônio Pedro University Hospital, Fluminense Federal University. Participants were 66 professionals divided into four stages of the study. For development and validation of ET, data collection occurred in all the four stages. 1 st stage: interviews and Bardin's thematic analysis were conducted. Inclusion criteria: nurses of surgical clinic department, resident or day labor, statutory- or private-contracted, and currently active. Exclusion criteria: professionals on vacation and / or in sick leave; 2 nd stage: preparation of the ET based the categories that emerged from the first stage; 3 rd stage: ET validation. At this stage the Likert scale and validation instruments were used, answered by expert judges and target audience. The instrument items analyzed received different valuations in each block, being considered as valid the items with agreement levels greater than or equal to 70% by the evaluators of this stage; 4 th stage: adequacy of ET by the evaluation of professionals. Results: from the speech of professionals emerged three categories, namely: General knowledge about the use of gloves; the use of gloves in nursing practice and its implications; analysis of the glove material. From these categories, an ET was prepared in audiovisual media format, and the validation of its results reached an agreement index higher than 80%. It is concluded that the development and application of an ET facing professional education and learning are essential for the safety of patients, professionals and the environment, minimizing the risk of cross-infection

La infección relacionada al cuidado de la salud (IRAS) es considerada un problema mundial de salud pública. Por eso, se hace preponderante una intervención en los cuidados y en la prevención de estos agravios. Delante de esta prerrogativa, el estudio tiene como objeto: la precaución de contacto a partir de una tecnología educacional (TE), que incite a los profesionales de enfermería a usar guantes. Objetivo general: proponer una TE en forma de medios audiovisuales para que ocurra la adecuación y/o adhesión de los profesionales de enfermería a las medidas de precaución de contacto con enfoque en los guantes. Objetivos específicos: identificar los factores que interfieren en la adhesión y/o adecuación del equipo de enfermería a las medidas de precaución de contacto en la utilización de los guantes de procedimientos esterilizados; elaborar una TE para que los profesionales de enfermería adhieran e se adecuen a las medidas de precaución de contacto, con enfoque en los guantes, a partir de sus declaraciones; validar una TE en forma de medio audiovisual, para que los profesionales de enfermería adhieran e se adecuen a las medidas de precaución de contacto con enfoque en los guantes. Metodología: investigación de abordaje cuanticualitativo del tipo metodológico. El escenario del estudio fue el Hospital Universitario Antonio Pedro de la Universidad Federal Fluminense. Los participantes fueron 66 profesionales distribuidos en cuatro etapas del estudio. Para elaborar y validar la TE, la recolección de los datos ocurrió en las cuatro etapas. En la 1ª etapa: se realizaron entrevistas y el análisis temático según Bardin. Criterios de inclusión: profesionales de enfermería de la clínica quirúrgica, diaristas o que hacen guardias, estatutarios o contratados, en ejercicio. Criterios de exclusión: profesionales de vacaciones y/o licencias médicas; 2ª etapa: elaboración de la TE a partir de las categorías que emergieron de la primera etapa; 3ª etapa: validación de TE. En esta etapa se utilizaron instrumentos de validación, escala Likert, respondidos por jueces especialistas y público objetivo. Los ítems del instrumento analizados recibieron diferentes valoraciones en cada bloque, siendo considerados válidos los ítems que obtuvieron concordancia mayor o igual a 70% por los evaluadores de esta etapa; 4ª etapa: adecuación de la TE a partir de la evaluación de los profesionales. Resultados: a partir de las declaraciones de los profesionales emergieron tres categorías: Conocimiento general acerca de la utilización de guantes; La utilización de los guantes en la práctica de enfermería y sus implicaciones; Evaluación del material de los guantes. A partir de estas categorías, se abordó una TE en forma de medio audiovisual, cuya validación de los resultados atingió índice de concordancia superior a 80%. Se concluye que la elaboración y aplicación de TE dirigidas para la enseñanza y el aprendizaje del profesional son primordiales para la seguridad del paciente, del profesional y del ambiente, minimizando los riesgos de infecciones cruzadas

Assessment of adverse reactions to latex gloves use among nurses at Mankweng Hospital, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Adverse reaction to latex is a common problem among nurses and other health care workers. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of adverse reactions to latex amongst nurses at Mankweng Hospital. A cross sectional study was carried out amongst 235 nurses at Mankweng Hospital using a self-administered questionnaire to collect information about history of allergic reaction; family history; signs and symptoms of adverse reactions after using latex gloves. Among 155 nurses who responded to the questionnaire (66 response rate); 41 (26) had a family history of allergic reactions; with asthma as the commonest allergic condition reported. Fifty four respondents (n= 54; 35) reported having had signs and symptoms of adverse reaction after using latex gloves. The most common features associated with adverse reaction to latex gloves were sneezing (n=32; 21); itching nose (n=24; 16); itching eyes (n=21; 14); runny nose (n=18; 12); cough (n=16; 11); skin redness (n=13; 9); skin redness (n=13; 9); hives (n=12; 8); scratchy throat (n=9; 6); light headedness (n=10; 7) and swelling and rash in area(s) of contact (n=11; 7). There was significant association between family history and occurrence of adverse reaction to latex gloves (p=0.029). Accordingly; this study concludes that adverse reaction to latex gloves is prevalent among nurses at Mankweng Hospital; and poses the potential for harmful effects to nurses. These effects may vary in severity from skin problems to anaphylactic shock. It is therefore important to educate nurses about the prevalence; presentation and prevention of adverse reaction to latex