Food Allergy Risks In Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare facilities can pose threats to individuals with food allergies. Here are three situations that can be risky:

👉 SURGERY & ANESTHESIA:

Individuals with food allergies may be at risk during surgery and anesthesia due to potential exposure to allergens. Anesthesia medications, intravenous fluids, or surgical materials may contain ingredients derived from common allergenic foods or have a risk of cross-contact. Make sure you inform the surgical team about your food allergies before the procedure to ensure appropriate precautions are taken.

👉 EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE:

During emergency situations, individuals with food allergies may be exposed to allergens through medications, intravenous fluids, or emergency food supplies. It's vital to inform emergency responders and healthcare providers about your food allergies so that appropriate steps can be taken to avoid exposure and provide safe and effective treatment.

👉 CLINICAL TRIALS:

Participation in clinical trials may involve exposure to experimental medications, treatments, or study diets that could potentially include allergenic ingredients. If you have food allergies and are considering participating in a clinical trial, it's important to discuss your allergies with the study team and carefully review the protocols and potential risks involved. Cross-contact can occur in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals or clinics, where different food products or medications may come in contact with each other.