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Johns Hopkins bans the use of latex gloves

Infection Control Monitor, January 25, 2008

The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore has taken a big step towards latex safety by banning the use of latex gloves.

The natural proteins in latex can cause allergic reactions--ranging from mild skin irritations to serious respiratory problems--in patients and healthcare workers.

In addition to gloves, latex is found in many medical devices, making total elimination of products with natural rubber difficult, says Johns Hopkins. That is why the medical center prefers the claim "latex safe" rather than "latex free."

A free checklist to assess latex hazards in your facility is available at the Hospital Safety Center. Look for the checklist by scrolling down to the Forms Library next to the pen icon.

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