How should you handle a client with a latex allergy in terms of sanitation?

• A. Use latex-free gloves and barrier materials; ensure products do not contain latex residues.
• B. Use latex gloves but wash hands after.
• C. Use any gloves but label client.
• D. Avoid gloves entirely.

Answer: (A)

When a client has a latex allergy, the sanitation approach focuses on removing all sources of latex exposure. Use gloves and barrier materials that are explicitly latex-free, such as nitrile or vinyl gloves, and ensure capes, towels, drapes, and any other barriers are also latex-free. It’s also important to verify that the products you use and the surfaces you touch don’t contain latex residues, and to sanitize tools and work areas thoroughly to prevent any inadvertent transfer. This directly eliminates the exposure risk and keeps the service environment safe for the client. Using latex gloves, labeling the client, or avoiding gloves altogether don’t address the exposure risk in the service area and thus aren’t appropriate for sanitation with a latex-allergic client.