The Food and Drug Administration has ordered the makers of Darvocet and similar drugs containing propoxyphene to carry a stronger warning about the risk of potential overdose. The agency declined to pull the drug from the market despite calls from consumer groups to do so. Propoxyphene-containing drugs have been linked to 91 deaths since 1957. (Hardly an epidemic in my opinion.) However, experts believe that number represents only a fraction of total fatalities caused by propoxyphene.

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I have mentioned on more than one occasion that I have a latex allergy which is one of the reasons I left the bedside. I recently learned of the Exceptional Nurse, a site dedicated to assisting nurses with disabilities. Several resources are available for those like me with latex allergies.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
The Academy provides information about latex allergy and a brochure and newsletter.

Latexallergyresources.org
This site provides educational materials, support groups, publications and product information.

Medic Alert
A 24-hour Emergency Response Center for members who wear the Medic Alert bracelet or neck chain.

MedWatch (FDA)
This organization provides safety information on medical products regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
This is the federal agency responsible for conducting research and making recommendations for the prevention of work-related disease and injury.

The Sustainable Hospital Project
Provides technical support to the health care industry in selecting products that reduce occupational and environmental hazards including latex, mercury, PVC and glutaraldehyde.

Workplace Safety Series: Living with Latex Allergies
By Robert Scally
Latex allergies drove a registered nurse from the clinical setting and forced her to alter the course of her nursing career.

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