A nurse is caring for a patient with a known latex allergy who is scheduled for surgery. Which intervention should the nurse implement first to ensure patient safety?

Screen all patients for latex allergy risk factors, including multiple surgeries (especially in childhood), spina bifida, healthcare worker status, and known allergies to bananas, avocados, or kiwis. Document the allergy prominently in the chart and confirm with the patient directly.

Schedule the patient as the first case of the day when possible to minimize airborne latex particles. Coordinate with the operating room team to remove all latex-containing items, including gloves, catheters, tourniquets, stethoscope tubing, and medication vial stoppers. Stock the room exclusively with latex-free alternatives from a designated supply cart.

Apply a red allergy alert bracelet immediately upon admission. Place a "Latex Allergy" sign on the patient's bed and the operating room door. Conduct a surgical time-out that includes verbal confirmation of the latex allergy and verification that a latex-free cart is available.

Have emergency medications (epinephrine, antihistamines, corticosteroids) drawn up and immediately accessible in the operating room. Note that prophylactic premedication with antihistamines or steroids does not prevent anaphylaxis and should never replace strict allergen avoidance.

Continue latex precautions into the post-anesthesia care unit. Monitor for delayed hypersensitivity reactions, which can occur hours after exposure. Ensure all hand-off reports include the patient's latex allergy status.