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NCLEX · Safety and Infection Control

A client with a documented latex allergy is scheduled for a procedure. What is the priority nursing action?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Ensure a latex-free environment — use latex-free gloves, equipment, and supplies; post latex allergy alerts; schedule the client as the first case of the day when possible (less airborne latex)

  1. A Keep epinephrine at the bedside but use regular supplies
  2. B Ensure a latex-free environment — use latex-free gloves, equipment, and supplies; post latex allergy alerts; schedule the client as the first case of the day when possible (less airborne latex)
  3. C Administer an antihistamine before the procedure
  4. D Have the client sign a waiver

Why this is the answer

LATEX ALLERGY MANAGEMENT — PREVENTION IS PRIORITY: Create a LATEX-FREE ENVIRONMENT: latex-free gloves (nitrile, vinyl); latex-free equipment (BP cuffs, tourniquets, IV tubing, catheters, syringes); check all supplies for latex content;

Latex allergy alerts: Allergy band, chart flag, signage on the door.

Scheduling: First case of the day reduces airborne latex particles that accumulate from prior cases.

Cross-reactivity: Latex-allergic patients may react to certain foods (banana, avocado, kiwi, chestnut — 'latex-fruit syndrome').

Reaction severity: Ranges from contact dermatitis to anaphylaxis; have emergency equipment and epinephrine available; PREVENTION over reaction: The priority is preventing exposure, not just being ready to treat a reaction.

Healthcare workers: At higher risk for developing latex allergy due to frequent exposure; LPN role: verify allergy, ensure latex-free supplies, post alerts, advocate for first-case scheduling, monitor for reaction.

Source: NCLEX-PN Safe Care — Latex Allergy Prevention

Practice more questions

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About this topic: Safety and Infection Control

Safety and infection control questions cover Standard and transmission-based precautions, hand hygiene, fall and injury prevention, restraints, fire safety and handling hazardous materials. This is one of 35 PN: Coordinated Care questions on safety and infection control, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our NCLEX exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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