Latex Allergy Protocol

HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK

LATEX ALLERGY PROTOCOL

DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION: 1ST APRIL 2025
REVIEW DATE: 1ST APRIL 2026
VERSION NUMBER: 1.1

INTRODUCTION

This protocol ensures that patients with a latex allergy are identified, managed, and treated safely in accordance with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Care Quality Commission (CQC), Save Face, and MHRA regulations. HAUS OF ÄSTHETIK is committed to reducing the risk of latex exposure by implementing preventative measures, emergency response protocols, and staff training.

SCREENING FOR LATEX ALLERGY

  • All patients must be screened for latex allergies during their initial consultation and medical history assessment.

  • The following questions must be asked:

    • Have you ever experienced an allergic reaction to latex products such as gloves, plasters, balloons, or rubber items?

    • Have you ever been diagnosed with a latex allergy by a medical professional?

    • Have you experienced any swelling, itching, breathing difficulties, or anaphylaxis after contact with latex?

  • Patients who confirm a history of latex sensitivity must be flagged on their medical records.

PREPARATION OF A LATEX-FREE ENVIRONMENT For all confirmed or suspected latex-allergic patients:

  • Gloves: Only nitrile gloves must be used by all staff involved in the patient’s care.

  • Aprons: Only plastic disposable aprons must be used.

  • Treatment Couches: A latex-free disposable sheet must be placed over the treatment couch before patient positioning.

  • Syringes & Medical Equipment: Only latex-free alternatives must be used for dermal fillers, injectables, and other treatments.

  • Dressings & Tapes: Latex-free plasters, bandages, and medical adhesives must be used.

  • Signage: A 'Latex-Free Treatment in Progress' sign must be displayed in the treatment room.

DURING TREATMENT

  • Staff must wash hands and change gloves before treating latex-sensitive patients.

  • No latex-containing products should enter the treatment area.

  • The patient should be monitored for any signs of an allergic reaction throughout the procedure.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE TO LATEX REACTIONS If a patient experiences a mild reaction:

  • Remove the source of latex exposure immediately.

  • Wash affected skin with mild soap and water.

  • Apply a cold compress to reduce irritation.

  • Observe the patient for further symptoms.

If a patient experiences a moderate reaction:

  • Administer an oral antihistamine if appropriate.

  • Observe for 30 minutes to ensure symptoms do not worsen.

If a patient experiences severe anaphylaxis:

  • Call 999 immediately.

  • Administer adrenaline via EpiPen if prescribed and available.

  • Ensure the patient is in a comfortable position and monitor vital signs.

  • Record all details of the reaction and inform the Managing Director.

STAFF TRAINING & POLICY COMPLIANCE

  • All clinical staff must complete latex allergy training upon induction and annually thereafter.

  • Staff must be familiar with latex-free alternative products used in the clinic.

  • Emergency response training for latex allergy reactions must be incorporated into general first aid training.

WASTE DISPOSAL & HANDLING

  • Latex-free materials must be disposed of as per standard waste disposal guidelines.

  • Sharps contaminated with medication or bodily fluids must be disposed of in sharps bins.

  • Any latex-containing materials must be segregated and not used for latex-allergic patients.

POLICY REVIEW & AUDIT

  • This protocol will be reviewed annually by the Managing Director to ensure compliance with updated regulations and best practices.

  • Internal audits and compliance checks will be conducted to ensure adherence to latex-free protocols.

For further guidance or to report latex allergy concerns, contact:

  • Emergency Line: 07514 543015 (WhatsApp available for images/videos)

  • Email: HausOfAsthetik@icloud.com

  • Clinic Address: 4 Portland Square, Water Street, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1HA, United Kingdom