What precaution should be taken for a patient with a latex allergy during surgery?

For a patient with a latex allergy, the most appropriate precaution during surgery is to keep the patient in a latex-free room. This approach ensures that there are no latex-containing products in the environment that could trigger an allergic reaction. Patients with latex allergies can have severe responses, including anaphylaxis, which may pose significant risks during surgery.

By maintaining a latex-free environment, healthcare providers can ensure that all surfaces, instruments, and equipment are free from latex. This proactive measure helps minimize the risk of exposure and potential complications associated with latex allergies.

The other options involve actions that might not sufficiently protect the patient from latex exposure. Using latex gloves would expose the patient directly to latex, while placing monitoring cords in a stockinette does not eliminate the risk if those cords contain latex. Moreover, applying a topical latex cream would not be relevant or safe, as that could also provoke an allergic reaction. Therefore, ensuring a latex-free environment is the best and most effective precaution for managing a patient with a latex allergy during surgical procedures.