Written question asked by Paul Flynn (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 October 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 October 2007. It was answered by Ann Keen (Labour) on Monday, 29 October 2007 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Patients: Allergies

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department has taken to reduce difficulties experienced by patients who are allergic to latex gloves.

Answer: On 26 May 2005 the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) issued to all national health service organisations in England and Wales, via their safety alert broadcast system, guidance Protecting People with Allergy Associated with Latex which recommended that a comprehensive working policy on the use and purchasing of latex products be developed.The policy should include measures to:"substitute, control or eliminate latex where appropriate and possible;""ensure staff are aware of, and have access to, safe and effective latex-free alternatives;""identify and protect sensitised patients; and""raise awareness about latex sensitivity among patients and staff."They further recommended that this policy should be backed up by efficient management arrangements, and the policies audited and reviewed to check compliance. A deadline of January 2006 was given for all these actions to be completed.In addition, a website-based toolkit has been developed by the Health and Safety Executive, in partnership with the Department, the NPSA, the Latex Allergy Support Group, the National Association of Theatre Nurses, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, the healthcare industry and other relevant bodies. This toolkit includes example policies and materials to help local NHS organisations raise awareness of latex allergy with both staff and patients.

Secondary information