Latex allergies - Nursing

Case study: Alison

Sector : Nursing

Condition: Latex allergy

Alison began nursing aged 18. Three years into her career she developed a severe allergy to the latex gloves she was required to wear for work. She was forced to give up nursing, aged just 29.

She developed skin irritation and breathing problems from the exposure to powdered latex gloves and still has to carry a treatment with her in case she accidentally comes into contact with latex. 

Alison won a 'landmark' case in the High Court on the grounds that risk (of allergy) was not adequately controlled by her employer.

 Alison says, 'I am finally coming to terms with the fact that I will not be returning to nursing. If this case makes employers sit up and take notice of the potential danger of powdered latex gloves I will be very pleased. I don't want anyone to have to go through what I am living with every day. I cannot lead a normal life and this has taken a toll on the whole family.'