Help Unit 307

[Nat B]

Does anyone know what to do if a child who had bad eczema on their wrists needed to investigate 'change of state' using sand and water but was not allowed to get sandy???? Is there some kind of polythene gloves she could wear so she may participate like everyone else??? I was thinknig that polythene is a man made product and should therefore reduce any risk of allergies. Not sure if I'm on the right track. If anyone could help I would really appreciate it.

Thanks.

[Ruthierhyme]

Hi yes you are, ideally you could get an action plan in place or follow exisitng policy & procedure to care for the skin of allergy or skin condition sufferers - latex protein and powder are both a risk for eczema & independant allergic reation: from Allergy UK & from HSE & a case experience.

Eczema from Family doctor.org & hand ezcema form National eczema.org

Fragrance & colour free resources
Use of recommended products only - no soaps or detergents unless known.
Application of aqueous, emollient & other prescribed creams.
Gentle hand washing with tepid water, slow towel patting/blotting to dry the skin with much awareness on no rubbing.
Ongoing policy to remove any need to time a child's participation at activities due to broken skin/rashes.
Check with parents and professionals which products may or maynot be suitable for use.

Use hand protection when needed for eg: sand, soil, sawdust, straw, hay, water, wind, food preparation & cookery, paint, glue, handling flock/short fibered fabrics.

Latex free gloves, vinyl, pvc, polythene, cotton gloves will help protect the skin & absorb sweat under waterproof gloves. Neoprene, lycra, dermaprene materials over cotton gloves may be suitable - diving gloves children there may be additional allergy implications for these so again checking and asking is always a good idea

What is latex for a known allergy is an excellent read.

Hth xx

Very interested to hear of any suppliers for child sized waterproof gloves and others policy for eczema care.

[Nat B]

Thank you very much for your quick reply. I wondered about child sized waterproof gloves too and I've googled it but not really got anywhere.

Thanks again for all of this wonderful information.

Nat x