Today, preventing transmissible infections in the surgical practice setting is more important than ever. The appropriate selection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) are key components in all infection prevention strategies. In this regard, medical gloves are the most common type of PPE used to protect healthcare workers (HCWs) from occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. As the use of gloves by HCWs continues to increase, so do concerns related to glove reactions. However, while many individuals may experience some type of a reaction to medical gloves, they often may not know the specific cause. In many cases, these reactions are allergies to the various chemicals used in the manufacture of medical gloves.

This continuing education activity will present a review of the problem of chemical allergies associated with glove use today. The difference between latex and chemical allergies will be outlined. The incidence, causes, and symptoms of chemical allergies, followed by treatment options, will be reviewed. Effective strategies to reduce the risk of chemical allergies related to the use of medical gloves by HCWs will be discussed. Finally, key considerations in the selection and use of alternative medical glove products to minimize and/or prevent chemical allergies in the workplace will be described.

• Define the difference between latex allergies and chemical allergies.
• Identify the incidence, causes, and symptoms of chemical allergy.
• Explain treatment options for chemical allergy.
• Identify strategies to reduce chemical allergy risk.
• Discuss how to select and use alternative medical glove products safely in the workplace to minimize or prevent chemical allergy.