Mahaska Health Partnership becomes Latex-Safe Environment

Mahaska Health Partnership

MAHASKA COUNTY – To protect patients, visitors and staff, Mahaska Health Partnership has implemented a new policy that will no longer allow latex balloons in the facility.

According to MHP Director of Clinical Quality Dawn Voss, RN, studies show that roughly six percent of the general population and up to 15 percent of healthcare workers are allergic to latex. “The higher rate among medical personnel is due to longer periods of contact with natural rubber,” Voss explained. “The more often a person is exposed to latex, the greater his or her chance of developing an allergy.”

People suffering from latex allergies can have serious allergic reactions that occur rapidly and are similar to those caused by foods such as peanuts. Voss said that in extreme cases, anaphylactic shock, which can occur within minutes of an exposure, can lead to death.

“This latex-safe policy was created in order to create the safest environment possible for our patients and employees,” shared Voss. “We understand the healing power of get-well wishes from family and friends and hope our patients continue to receive such gifts, without latex material.”

Voss shared that the hospital will still allow mylar (foil) balloons, but any latex balloons that are brought in the facility will be removed immediately in the safest way possible.

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, call 641-672-3240 or visit www.mahaskahealth.org.