A nurse is completing a preadmission interview for a client who is to undergo surgery the following day. The client reports a latex allergy. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include when planning care for the client's surgery? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Schedule the client as the last surgery of the day: Clients with latex allergy should ideally be scheduled as the first surgery of the day to minimize exposure to latex particles that may accumulate in the air and environment. Scheduling last increases exposure risk. B. Notify ancillary departments of the client's allergy: Informing all relevant departments, such as pharmacy, radiology, and laboratory services, ensures that latex-free supplies are used consistently throughout the client’s care. This prevents accidental exposure to latex-containing products. C. Label the surgical suite as latex-free: Clearly labeling the operating room reduces the risk of staff inadvertently bringing in latex products. It promotes team-wide awareness and helps maintain a safe surgical environment for the client. D. Provide powdered gloves for the staff's use: Powdered latex gloves are contraindicated because they release latex proteins into the air, which increases the risk of allergic reactions. Only non-latex, powder-free gloves should be provided. E. Ensure a latex allergy cart is available: Having a latex allergy cart stocked with latex-free supplies ensures that all necessary items are available during the procedure. This reduces delays and eliminates the need to search for suitable equipment during surgery.