Interactive group seminars for medical outpatients increased discussions and use of written advance directives.

No abstract

To estimate the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical spectrum of adverse reactions to natural rubber latex-containing products among a national sample of perioperative nurses, the investigators administered a self-reporting questionnaire to a convenience sample of 2,200 members of the Association of Operating Room Nurses, Inc. Of the 1,738 nurses who responded, 369 (21%) reported latex reactions. Multivariate analysis identified a history of allergies to cosmetic powders, other allergies, chronic illnesses, and regular use of latex gloves as independent risk factors for reactions to latex-containing products. Localized reactions, such as contact dermatitis, were the reactions reported most commonly, although severe systemic reactions also were described.

Surgery offers patients the chance to improve the quality and longevity of their lives, but surgery and anesthesia are not without risks. Patients should have the opportunity to make informed choices about the risks they take with respect to their health care. Perioperative nurses must be knowledgeable about advance directives and the implications they have for surgical care, and they must support patient autonomy by respecting the choices and decisions patients make about their care.

No abstract