Question

A nurse is performing a preoperative assessment for a client. The nurse should identify that an allergy to which of the following foods can indicate a latex allergy?

(a) Avocado
(b) Banana
(c) Chestnut
(d) All of the above

Answer 1

An allergy to avocado, banana, and chestnut can indicate a latex allergy due to similar proteins that cause cross-reactivity between these foods and latex. It is crucial for nurses to assess for latex allergies in a preoperative setting.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify that an allergy to avocado, banana, and chestnut can indicate a latex allergy. This is because certain foods contain proteins that are similar to the proteins found in natural rubber latex, which can cause the immune system to react in a similar way it does to latex. Allergies to these foods are often associated with latex allergy due to the cross-reactivity between these food proteins and latex proteins. In a preoperative assessment, it is important for a nurse to check for potential latex allergies to prevent allergic reactions during medical procedures, where latex is commonly used in various supplies and equipment.