Experiences when using different EHMR models: Implications for different designs and meeting user expectations - 30/12/24
, Mihili Edirisooriya, PhD b, Rohan Fernando, MS, CEng MIMechE a, Caitlin McClain, MS, GSP b, Margaret Sietsema, PhD a, Adam Hornbeck, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, FNP-C a, Paul Thurman, PhD, RN, ACNPC, CCNS, CCRN d, Sara Angelilli, DNP, MS, RN, CNOR, NPD-BC, NE-BC c, Hope Waltenbaugh, MSN, RN, CNOR, NE-BC c, Sricharan Chalikonda, MD, MHA, FACS c, Stella E. Hines, MD, MSPH eRésumé |
Background |
New elastomeric half-mask respirator (EHMR) models without exhalation valves (EVs) or with exhalation valve filters (EVFs) are facilitating expanded use in health settings to reduce workers’ exposure to airborne hazards while acting as source control to prevent pathogen spread. The physical comfort of new models has not been assessed in comparison to previously used EHMRs with EVs.
Methods |
Researchers assessed 1,962 health care and emergency medical service personnels’ self-reported adverse experiences from 2 cohorts while wearing EHMR models with EVs (cohort 1, n = 1,080) and without EVs or with EVFs (cohort 2, n = 882). Fisher exact test identified differences between the cohorts accounting for organizational factors when possible.
Results |
Cohort 1 respondents experienced communication challenges and discomfort when wearing the EHMR > 1 hour statistically significantly more often than cohort 2. Cohort 2 respondents reported statistically significantly more instances of difficulty breathing, moisture buildup, being uncomfortable to wear < 1 hour, and being uncomfortably warm.
Conclusions |
Discomfort is prevalent among end users and more often among those wearing EHMRs without an EV/with an EVF. As EHMR research and development advances, prevalence in use may increase for emergency and routine situations. Organizations may not only need guidance about respirator selection but also model-specific selection.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Highlights |
• | EHMRs are suitable for use in a range of healthcare and emergency response roles. |
• | Occupations may experience different types of PPE interference based on tasks. |
• | Users from organizations with EHMR experience were less likely to express discomfort. |
• | Cohort 2 experienced excess warmth and moisture buildup 2 times more than cohort 1. |
• | EHMRs may be stockpiled for routine use and emergency preparedness and response. |
Key Words : Elastomeric half-mask respirator, Exhalation valve, Health care, Respiratory protection, User experiences
Plan
| Conflicts of interest: None to report. |
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| The findings and conclusions are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mention of any company or product does not constitute endorsement by NIOSH, CDC. |
Vol 53 - N° 1
P. 144-149 - janvier 2025 Retour au numéro
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