Allergy to plastic patient files

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Hi Guys,

Just want an opinion on my latest problem. I work in the NHS. All our patient records are kept in plastic punched document/wallets (A4) size.

These files are however, giving me a terrific rash on my arms. I look like I have been self-harming by the end of a clinical session.

I wear latex free gloves, which only makes a slight difference. I have had a latex allergy test, which came back negative. However, I have a high sensitivity factor.

Any suggestions as to what I should do next? I am dreading the summer, due to this rash.

Sasha

 

Hi S

Have you tried using a dimethicone based barrier cream? Siopel is a name that springs to mind. As you probably remember, I have a periodic allergy to even the low protein powder free gloves I use. Barrier creams help this. You can possibly spend the rest of your working life trying to identify the allergen. Kindest Regards, Martin

 

Hi Sasha,

Sorry to hear you've been having so much trouble! I myself suffer my fair share of allergies, and unfortunately you cannot avoid every single exposure to allergens...unless you live in a bubble of course

I was recommended to take the strongest Telfast (180mg Fexofenadine Hydrochloride) which is recommended for hives and skin rashes. So if you haven't tried it, give it a shot.

I've also been prescribed prednisone at the hospital when I had *severe* hives (I think it was 50mg per day) for 2 weeks but there are a lot of side effects with taking this type of medication. Maybe a dermatologist could help you?

Good luck!

Regards

Donna

 

Hi Sasha,

This is an Occupational Health issue, your Podiatry Manager should be made aware of the situation and given the opportunity to help your situation.

I don't see why you should have to poison your body with drugs when it would be quite simple (and cheap) to change all the wallets to an appropriately sized envelope.

The NHS has been talking for years about putting all Pt records onto computer, but having been out of the NHS for a couple of years I don't know if they're any closer to acheiving this.

Good luck with this.

Nina