NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Safety and ComplianceEasy
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to draw blood from a patient for routine lab tests. The patient has visible signs of a latex allergy, which is noted in their medical record. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the technician to take regarding personal protective equipment (PPE)?
- AWear latex gloves but add an additional layer of non-latex gloves over them.
- BAdminister an antihistamine to the patient before starting the blood draw.
- CProceed with standard latex gloves, as the allergy is typically to airborne particles.
- DUse non-latex gloves, such as nitrile or vinyl, for the procedure.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Use non-latex gloves, such as nitrile or vinyl, for the procedure.
For patients with known latex allergies, it is crucial to avoid all latex products to prevent an allergic reaction. Non-latex gloves like nitrile or vinyl are appropriate substitutes.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; an inner layer of latex gloves would still expose the patient to latex proteins if the outer layer tears or if the technician touches the patient before donning the outer layer.
- B. This is outside the scope of practice for a phlebotomy technician and would not prevent a reaction to direct latex exposure.
- C. This is incorrect; direct contact with latex can trigger a severe allergic reaction.
Latex Allergy Precautions
A hypersensitivity reaction to proteins in natural rubber latex, requiring avoidance of latex-containing products in affected individuals.
- Can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis.
- Requires the use of non-latex alternatives for all patient contact.
- Healthcare facilities often have 'latex-safe' protocols.
Memory trick: Always check for allergies, especially 'L' for Latex, before you 'P'erform 'P'rocedures.