Final answer:
A patient with a latex allergy should avoid hospital items that contain latex, such as gloves, bandages, and tubing, using latex-free alternatives to prevent allergic reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The patient with a latex allergy needs to avoid items that are likely to contain latex. Items used in hospitals that may contain latex include gloves, bandages, and various types of tubing. It is essential to use latex-free alternatives to prevent allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis or type IV hypersensitivity reactions, where the immune system reacts against substances it perceives as harmful. This is particularly important in scenarios where an item comes into contact with intact skin but does not penetrate sterile tissues or come into contact with mucous membranes, which is referred to as a non-critical item. For medical items that do require sterilization, they must be free of any potential allergens, including latex, to ensure patient safety.