Powder-free Latex Gloves Research Articles

Investigation of maximum torque values in manual tightening of dental implant healing screws

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the change of the maximum torque values applied by the dentist according to the parameters of gender,dental experience and glove type used in the tightening processes applied manually by pre-graduated and post-graduated dentists to the implant superstructure parts. Methods: 24 dentists (11 Male, 13 Female) participated in our study.Participants were instructed to tighten the implant healing screw (Straumann Dental Implant System, Waldenberg, Switzerland) placed on the digital torque measuring device(Cap torque tester series TT01; Mark10, Copiague, NY)by applying maximum force with a manual wrench.Powdered latex gloves,powderfree latex gloves and sterile surgical gloves were made available to the participants in order to imitate the mouth conditions as much as possible.Manual tightening was repeated three times in each group,with at least three minutes duration. Data were recorded digitally and statistical analysis was performed with IBS SPSS statistics 22 program.Independent sample t-test and one-way Anova analysis were used to evaluate differences between groups, followed by the post-hoc Tukey test. Results: Maximum torque value for tightening with powdered latex gloves (20.01±5.55) N, powder free latex gloves (17.27± 4.34) N and surgical gloves (20.27±6.02) N was found.In addition, we did not find a statistically significant difference in terms of gender and dental experience,which are the other parameters we investigated. Conclusion: Gender, experience and glove type do not statistically affect the maximum torque to be applied in implant superstructure applications.

Detection of gasoline on suspects’ hands: Study of different sampling alternatives

Arsonists may use ignitable liquids to start, accelerate and amplify fires. The sampling of volatiles present on the hands of suspected arsonists is therefore sometimes carried out in the course of the investigation of (possible) deliberate fires. Several collection protocols have been proposed, relying on the concentration of volatiles by the transfer on PVC gloves and further passive headspace extraction with Activated Charcoal Strips (ACS). Previous research findings assessing the use of Activated Carbon Cloth (ACC) – initially developed for the adsorption of gas in military applications – opens the path to new perspectives regarding the extraction and the concentration of ignitable liquid residues in general, and for the sampling on hands in particular. Five alternative methods (four relying on the use of ACC and one on ACS) were considered for the collection of gasoline traces present on the hands and their subsequent analysis by gas chromatography – mass spectrometry.Gasoline was deposited onto the palms of volunteers to study the differences between the collection method using ACS and those using ACC. For the latter, either the volunteer hands were placed in nylon bags with an ACC on the palm or suspended, or, powder-free latex gloves were used, with an ACC on the palm or in a separate extraction, with the glove in a nylon bag and the ACC suspended.The results showed that the background contamination was not distinguishable between ACS and ACC and their sampling ability was comparable. The two methods relying on the deposition of ACC directly on the surface of the palm where gasoline was deposited showed significantly higher collection capacity than other methods, provided that the ACC was in direct contact with the contaminated zone. The results showed that three main factors affected the collection of gasoline on the hands: the distance between the skin and the sorbent (ACC or ACS) in case of direct concentration of volatiles on the sorbent, the exposure time, and the space between the hand and the glove or bag (i.e. the headspace volume).This research opens new perspectives for the sampling of ignitable liquid residues through the use of ACC. It corroborates the perceived potential of ACC for the extraction and concentration of volatile compounds, particularly for fire debris analysis purposes. While the experiments were focused on the collection of gasoline on hands, the results provide valuable information in a more general way for the sampling of fire debris.

Skin reactions amongst Greek endodontists: a national questionnaire survey.

To investigate amongst Greek endodontists in the past 5years the prevalence, aetiologic factors, severity and treatment for skin reactions. One hundred and 47 endodontists met the inclusion criteria and were invited to participate in the survey. Participants were asked for personal/professional data, prevalence, aetiologic factors, symptoms, severity and treatment for skin reactions in the past 5years. The type of gloves used and frequency of hand washing as well as information on history of atopy and eczema were also recorded. Data were analysed using chi-square test and independent samples t-test. The level of significance was set at P=0.05. The response rate was 84%. Skin reactions were reported by 32.5% of participants. Hands were the body part most frequently affected (66% of cases); glove powder accounted for 73% of skin reactions. Medical care was sought by 28.2% of the affected participants. Endodontists with a history of atopy (P<0.001) and dermal eczema (P<0.001) as well as females (P=0.023) were more likely to report skin reactions. Replacement of powdered latex gloves with powder-free or vinyl/nitrile gloves, avoidance of potential allergens and use of pharmaceutical ointments were adopted by 48.7%, 23.1% and 2.6% of the affected endodontists, respectively, to manage skin reactions. Approximately one-third of participants reported skin reactions. History of atopy and dermal eczema as well as gender was significantly associated with such reactions. The use of powder-free latex gloves instead of powdered ones was the measure most frequently adopted to manage reactions.

The prevalence of latex sensitisation and allergy and associated risk factors among healthcare workers using hypoallergenic latex gloves at King Edward VIII Hospital, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa: a cross-sectional study

ObjectivesThe present study describes latex sensitisation and allergy prevalence and associated factors among healthcare workers using hypoallergenic latex gloves at King Edward VIII Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingA tertiary...

375 The prevalence of latex sensitisation and allergy and associated risk factors among healthcare workers using hypoallergenic latex gloves South Africa

ObjectivesThe present study describes latex sensitisation and allergy prevalences and associated factors among healthcare workers using hypoallergenic latex gloves at King Edward VIII Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa.MethodsA cross sectional...

Latex allergy in health care.

The increasing use of natural rubber latex medical gloves in the last three decades has caused an increase in latex allergy. The majority of risk groups for allergy development include health care workers, workers in the rubber industry, atopic individuals and children with congenital malformations. Three types of pathological reactions can occur in people using latex medical gloves: irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis and immediate hypersensitivity. The latex allergy is caused by constituent components of latex gloves and added powders; there are also numerous latex allergens involved in cross-reactivity between latex and fruits and vegetables, the so-called latex-fruit syndrome. The diagnosis is based on an accurate history of exposure, clinical presentation and confirmatory in vivo and in vitro tests. Prevention is the easiest, most effective and least expensive way to avoid latex allergy. Powder-free latex gloves with reduced levels of proteins and chemicals, and synthetic gloves for allergic workers must be provided in the work environment. There are already many health care institutions around the world where all latex products have been replaced by synthetic material products.

Prevention of IgE Sensitization to Latex in Health Care Workers After Reduction of Antigen Exposures

To investigate occupational latex allergy in health care workers (HCWs) before and after an intervention designed to reduce latex allergen exposure from gloves. Latex antigen concentrations in work area air ducts were measured before the intervention. Symptoms and latex sensitization were monitored annually before and after the intervention in 805 HCWs, using questionnaires and skin prick testing. The prevalence of latex sensitization before the intervention correlated with air duct latex antigen measurements, for HCWs exposed to low (9/413, 2%), intermediate (23/292, 8%), and high (11/67, 16%) antigen levels, P < 0.0001. After the intervention, new latex sensitization rates declined 16-fold, and 25% of previously sensitized employees reverted to negative skin tests. Airborne antigen exposure is a major source of latex sensitization among HCWs. Use of powder-free latex gloves markedly reduces the risk of sensitization.

Natural Rubber Latex Allergy Among Health Care Workers: Significant Reduction of Sensitization and Clinical Relevant Latex Allergy After Introduction of Powder-free Latex Gloves

RATIONALE: An IgE mediated allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) is a serious health problem. Health care workers are especially at risk due to their frequent contact with rubber gloves. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of NRL sensitization and clinical NRL allergy, among operating room employees, before and ten years after the introduction of non powdered NRL gloves. (1998/2009)METHODS: Surgical NRL glove wearing operating room employees were asked to participate in a cross sectional study at two occasions (1998/2009). Characteristics and work related respiratory allergy symptoms were gathered by means of a questionnaire. Skin prick tests with allergen extracts were performed including latex extract(s) and cross-reacting foods such as kiwi, avocado, banana and common inhalant allergens.RESULTS: In 2009 and in 1998, respectively 187 and 163 employees were eligible to participate in the study. The two groups were comparable concerning e.g. age, gender and job characteristics. In 2009 the prevalence of sensitization was significantly lower compared to 1998 (3.9 % versus 14.1 %). Also clinical relevant NRL allergy was significantly less present in 2009 compared to 1998 (2.2 % versus 9.8%). Atopy was significantly associated with the development of sensitization to NRL.CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a clear indication that the introduction of non powdered latex gloves in 1998 is responsible for the reduction in prevalence of latex sensitization and clinical latex allergy. RATIONALE: An IgE mediated allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL) is a serious health problem. Health care workers are especially at risk due to their frequent contact with rubber gloves. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of NRL sensitization and clinical NRL allergy, among operating room employees, before and ten years after the introduction of non powdered NRL gloves. (1998/2009) METHODS: Surgical NRL glove wearing operating room employees were asked to participate in a cross sectional study at two occasions (1998/2009). Characteristics and work related respiratory allergy symptoms were gathered by means of a questionnaire. Skin prick tests with allergen extracts were performed including latex extract(s) and cross-reacting foods such as kiwi, avocado, banana and common inhalant allergens. RESULTS: In 2009 and in 1998, respectively 187 and 163 employees were eligible to participate in the study. The two groups were comparable concerning e.g. age, gender and job characteristics. In 2009 the prevalence of sensitization was significantly lower compared to 1998 (3.9 % versus 14.1 %). Also clinical relevant NRL allergy was significantly less present in 2009 compared to 1998 (2.2 % versus 9.8%). Atopy was significantly associated with the development of sensitization to NRL. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a clear indication that the introduction of non powdered latex gloves in 1998 is responsible for the reduction in prevalence of latex sensitization and clinical latex allergy.

NewsCAP: Replacing cornstarch powder-coated latex gloves with powder-free latex gloves reduced workerʼs compensation claims for latex-related illness

NewsCAP: Replacing cornstarch powder-coated latex gloves with powder-free latex gloves reduced workerʼs compensation claims for latex-related illness

The Effect of a Transition to Powder-Free Latex Gloves on Workers' Compensation Claims for Latex-Related Illness

Adverse reactions to natural rubber latex gloves are an important cause of workers' compensation claims among health care personnel. In an effort to reduce latex-related illness, our institution transitioned to powder-free latex gloves in 2001. To examine the effect of this transition on the number of workers' compensation claims for latex-related illness. A review of claims data from 1997 to 2005 was conducted. The incidence of claims for latex-related illness was significantly lower following the switch to powder-free gloves. The switch to powder-free latex gloves was associated with a significant decrease in workers' compensation claims for latex-related illness. The cost of gloves increased but was partially offset by a decrease in workers' compensation payments and operating room expenses.

Prevalence of type I allergy to natural rubber latex and type IV allergy to latex and rubber additives in operating room staff with glove-related symptoms

There is lack of data on the prevalence of latex allergy in the health care setting in Iran. This study was performed to determine the prevalence of type I latex allergy and type IV allergy to latex and rubber additives among the operating room staff with glove-related symptoms in 13 general hospitals in Tehran. Skin-prick tests with commercial latex extract, patch tests with latex and 25 rubber additive series, and total and latex-specific IgE detection were performed on the operating room staff who reported latex glove-related symptoms. Five hundred twelve self-administered questionnaires (100%) were completed by all operating room staff and latex glove-related symptoms were reported by 59 (11.5%) employees. Among all symptomatic operating room staff tested, the prevalence of type I latex allergy was 30.5% and the prevalence rates of type IV allergy to latex and rubber additives were 16.7 and 14.6%, respectively. The most positive patch test result with rubber additives was related to tetramethylthiuram monosulfide (38.5%). The risk factors for type I latex allergy were female sex (p = 0.009) and positive patch test with rubber additives (p = 0.012). Subjects who had positive patch test with latex were significantly more likely to have positive patch test with rubber additives (p < 0.0001). Our results showed a high prevalence of type I latex allergy and type IV allergy to latex and rubber additives. Based on this study, we recommend eliminating powdered latex gloves from the operating rooms of the 13 studied general hospitals and support the substitution of powder-free latex gloves.

Glove Tears During Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery Using Solid-Core Suture

Surgeons have noticed an increased incidence of finger lacerations associated with arthroscopic knot tying with solid-core suture material. This study examines glove perforations and finger lacerations during arthroscopic shoulder surgery. We collected 400 surgical gloves from 50 consecutive arthroscopic shoulder repair procedures using No. 2 solid-core sutures. Two surgeons using double gloves were involved in every case, with one being responsible for tying all knots. Powder-free latex gloves were worn in all cases. Knots consisted of a sliding stitch of the surgeon's preference followed by 3 half-hitches via a knot-pusher instrument. All gloves were inspected grossly and then tested for tears with an electroconductivity meter. The knot-tying surgeon had significantly more glove tears than the control (P < .01). Tears were localized to the radial side of the index finger of the glove at the distal interphalangeal joint in all cases. Of the tying surgeon's gloves, 68 (34%) were found to have tears. These included 17 inner gloves (17%) and 51 outer gloves (51%). If an inner glove was torn, the corresponding outer glove was torn in all cases. A mean of 3.96 knots were tied in each case. There was a significantly higher incidence of inner glove tears when more than 3 knots were tied (P < .03). There was no significant difference in glove tears between suture types. Finger lacerations did occur in the absence of glove tears. However, in the presence of an inner glove tear, there was a statistically significant association with a finger laceration at the corresponding level (P < .03). Intraoperative glove tears and subsequent finger lacerations occur with a high frequency when arthroscopic knots are tied with solid-core suture material. Risk can potentially be minimized by frequent glove changes or use of more durable, less penetrable gloves. This study addresses surgeon and patient safety during arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

Longitudinal study of sensitization to natural rubber latex among dental school students using powder-free gloves.

A high rate of sensitization and clinical allergy to latex proteins has been reported in health care personnel. This is thought to be due to increased occupational exposure especially to natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves with an estimated prevalence varying widely (2.8-18%). This was a longitudinal study to monitor a cohort of first-year dental students throughout 4 study years during exposure to powder-free gloves. Their atopic status was determined by skin prick testing using a panel of common allergens, and any sensitivity to latex proteins and the cross-reacting food allergens assessed. Skin prick testing was carried out on the volunteers using latex, avocado, kiwi, banana, grass pollens, tree pollen, house dust mite and cat dander. Each volunteer completed a questionnaire detailing allergic history and any previous latex exposure. Skin prick testing showed a 65% incidence of atopy in the longitudinal study group. Initial latex skin testing was positive in 3 of the 63 students followed throughout their period of study. Subsequent testing gave a negative result in one student and one declined retesting. The third continued to give a positive response on each testing; she wore only nitrile gloves and remained free of clinical NRL allergy symptoms. No student developed latex sensitivity during the 5 yr of this study. Exposure to powder-free latex gloves was not associated with subsequent sensitization over 5 yr in a population with a high atopic incidence.

Challenge tests with powder-free natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves in health care workers with a history of NRL-induced asthma

Rationale NRL-allergic health care workers (HCWs) can reportedly remain on the job if they use NRL-free material (mainly gloves) and their co-workers use, at the minimum, powder-free latex gloves. However, even powder-free latex gloves may release NRL-allergens into the atmosphere and induce symptoms in NRL-allergic HCWs. We conducted this study to determine if powder-free NRL gloves would cause allergic symptoms under controlled exposure conditions. Methods Bronchial provocation challenge tests with methacholine, adsorbable dusting powder (ADP), powder-free and powdered NRL examination gloves were performed in 16 HCWs who were referred to the Osnabrueck clinic with a positive history of work-related NRL-induced asthma and a confirmed NRL-sensitization. The test gloves were analyzed for both powder and allergen levels by in vitro assays. Results The extractable allergen levels from powder-free gloves were 100 to 300 fold lower than those detected from the powdered gloves. Trace quantities of inhalable particles could be detected on the powder-free gloves. No HCW challenged with powder-free NRL gloves exhibited any clinically observable allergic reactions (e.g. rhinitis or conjunctivitis) or bronchial obstruction as assessed by spirometry. In contrast, all 16 subjects developed rhinitis following a challenge with powdered NRL-gloves and 10 of these also experienced a significant drop in FEV1. Conclusions The amount of NRL-allergen produced by handling up to 20 powder-free NRL-gloves was not sufficient to induce any clinically observable allergic reactions in the skin, mucosa or bronchi of latex allergic asthmatics. Powder-free NRL-gloves can be safely used by other personnel without inducing injury in NRL-allergic co-workers.

Examination gloves affect secretion of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors from human abdominal skin fibroblasts.

Overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) has been observed in chronic, compared to acute, wounds and altered levels might impair healing. During treatment of wounds, examination gloves are routinely used, and the wound environment thus gets exposed to gloves. The aim of this study was to characterize secretion of MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in cultured fibroblasts with or without exposure to gloves. Cultures were exposed to glove washings from powdered or powder-free latex examination gloves and compared to untreated controls. MMP-1, -2, -3, -9 and their inhibitors TIMP-1 and -2 were assayed in conditioned media. Cells exposed to gloves reduced their release of MMP-1, -2, and -3 with no differences between the manufacturers of the gloves. The inhibitor TIMP-1 was reduced to 10-15% of untreated control values (p < 0.001), being less affected by the powder-free than by the powdered glove (p < 0.05). MMP-9 and TIMP-2 were not significantly altered. We therefore conclude that secretion of MMPs and TIMPs from cultured fibroblasts were affected by glove washings. Powdered and powder-free gloves had similar effects, except for a less pronounced reduction of TIMP-1 production by the powder-free glove. Examination gloves might therefore affect wound healing, with the least pronounced effect observed using the powder-free glove.

Air sampling in occupational asthma

Air sampling in occupational asthma

The Editors’ Choice

The Editors’ Choice

Allergie au latex : pertinence des mesures d’éviction

Complete latex avoidance is the most effective approach for treatment of latex allergy. Alternatives to latex gloves and other articles include chemical processes as well as synthetic rubber or other synthetic materials. These may be suited for certain uses only, depending on their respective physical properties. Global preventive strategies are based on current knowledge and a common-sense approach to minimizing latex allergy. Undue latex exposure should be reduced by the use of non-latex materials when there is little potential for contact with infectious agents. When latex is required, reduced-protein, powder-free latex gloves must be chosen. Education and information programs, improvement of ventilation procedures, frequent cleaning of contaminated areas, and training devices about latex allergy are usually recommended. However, detection of high-risk patients or workers must be discussed in relation to the background.

Effect of powder‐free latex examination glove use on airborne powder levels in a dental school clinic

Cornstarch powder on latex examination gloves acts as an airborne carrier of natural latex allergens resulting in cutaneous, conjunctival, and/or respiratory responses to latex, a particular concern in a dental school environment where concentrated use of latex examination gloves occurs. This study measured airborne powder levels associated with a trial substitution of powder-free latex examination gloves for powdered latex examination gloves in a dental school clinic. Secondary aims of the study were to assess user acceptance of powder-free gloves during the trial and to assess the financial impact of converting the entire dental school to a powder-free environment. Air was sampled from two areas (dispensary and treatment room) of a student clinic fifteen to thirty minutes before the beginning of normal clinic sessions and again about 1.5 hours into the clinic session. The samples were microscopically analyzed for particulate counts of cornstarch powder. A written survey instrument assessed user acceptance of the two types of gloves. Historical financial data were used to estimate the cost of converting the entire dental school to a powder-free environment. Both the dispensary and the treatment room showed significant reductions in airborne powder counts during use of powder-free latex gloves and a return to high powder counts with resumption of powdered glove use. During the weeks of powdered glove use, the powder counts were also significantly lower before the beginning of the clinic session and higher during the clinic session. User acceptance of the powder-free latex gloves was high. The increased cost per year to convert the entire dental school to a powder-free environment was estimated to be $13,943.

RCN backs powder-free latex gloves

RCN backs powder-free latex gloves