RESUMEN
ANTECEDENTES: Este informe se efectúa en atención a la solicitud de la Jefatura del Instituto Nacional de Salud. El objetivo es sintetizar la evidencia científica publicada respecto a la efectividad del uso de doble mascarilla o combinación de una mascarilla y respirador KN95 en un entorno comunitario. El respirador KN95 fue incluido, ya que está disponible para su uso en la comunidad. MÉTODOS: Pregunta PICO abordada: ¿Cuál es la efectividad del uso de doble mascarilla o combinación de una mascarilla y respirador KN95 para prevenir la transmisión de del SARS-CoV-2? Criterios de elegibilidad: Los criterios de selección de los estudios fueron los siguientes: Estudios que corresponden a la pregunta PICO y que reporten resultados para al menos uno de los desenlaces considerados. Se incluyeron estudios publicados en idioma inglés y español. Diseño de estudios a incluir: ensayos clínicos, ensayos de campo, estudios de cohorte y en ausencia de éstos, estudios preclínicos (simulaciones bajo condiciones de laboratorio). Se excluyeron cartas al editor, revisiones narrativas y artículos de opinión. Métodos de búsqueda: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática hasta el 21 de octubre de 2021 en COVID-END, MEDLINE/ PubMed, MedRxiv y en la Plataforma Living Overview of the Evidence (L·OVE) de la Fundación Epistemonikos, incluyendo términos en lenguaje natural y lenguaje estructurado (Tesauros) según cada base de datos para COVID-19 ó SARS-CoV-2 y "doble mascarilla". Selección de evidencia, extracción de datos y análisis: La selección de estudios consideró una fase inicial de lectura de títulos y resúmenes, seguida de una fase de lectura del texto completo de las referencias potencialmente relevantes identificadas. La selección y extracción de los datos fue realizada por un solo revisor. Se realizó una síntesis narrativa de los datos extraídos. Este informe no incluye una evaluación de riesgo de sesgo de los estudios incluidos. RESULTADOS: Efectividad del uso de doble mascarilla o de la combinación de mascarilla y respirador KN95. No se encontraron estudios que hayan evaluado la efectividad de usar doble mascarilla o combinar mascarilla más el respirador KN95 en entornos comunitarios. Evidencia procedente de estudios experimentales. Eficiencia de la filtración de partículas. Pruebas de ajuste. Eficiencia de control de la fuente. Reducción de la exposición en el receptor. CONCLUSIONES: El objetivo del informe fue sintetizar la evidencia científica publicada respecto a la efectividad del uso de doble mascarilla o combinación de una mascarilla y respirador KN95 en un entorno comunitario. No se encontraron estudios clínicos que hayan evaluado la efectividad de usar doble mascarilla o combinar mascarilla más el respirador KN95 en entornos comunitarios. Se identificaron 5 estudios de simulación experimental que evaluaron a) la capacidad de filtración de partículas de los materiales utilizados por las mascarillas, b) el factor de ajuste, c) la eficiencia en el control de la fuente, referido a la capacidad para bloquear las partículas emitidas por un simulador (fuente) durante una tos o respiración simulada o d) la reducción de la exposición a los aerosoles en el receptor. Los estudios utilizaron métodos distintos para las simulaciones y medición de sus desenlaces. Respecto a la eficiencia en la filtración de partículas, existe inconsistencia en los resultados para la combinación de una mascarilla de tela encima de la mascarilla quirúrgica o de procedimientos médicos, ya que uno de los estudios observó un aumento de la eficiencia de filtración (66% a 81% con la combinación frente a 55% con solo una mascarilla quirúrgica) mientras que un estudio adicional no observó cambios en los resultados luego de usar doble mascarilla. Los estudios si coincidieron en mostrar que la eficiencia de las mascarillas de tela es pobre, usar doble mascarilla quirúrgica disminuyó la eficiencia de filtración y no se observaron mejoras con usar doble mascarilla de tela o usar la mascarilla quirúrgica encima de la mascarilla de tela. El uso de doble mascarilla (mascarilla de tela de algodón de 3 capas encima de mascarilla quirúrgica) aumentó el factor de ajuste pero en menor grado a lo logrado con modificaciones para optimizar el ajuste a una sola mascarilla quirúrgica o de procedimientos médico, consistentes en usar un accesorio tipo abrazadera para fijar la mascarilla ó la técnica de nudos y pliegues "Knotted & tucked" que consiste en anudar las bandas para las orejas donde se unen con el borde de la mascarilla, luego doblar y plegar el material sobrante debajo de los bordes. En comparación a usar una sola mascarilla quirúrgica o de procedimientos médicos o una sola mascarilla de tela, el uso de doble mascarilla incrementó la eficiencia en el control de la fuente (85% a 92%). La combinación consistió en una mascarilla de tela de algodón de 3 capas encima de una mascarilla quirúrgica o similar. Esta mejora también fue observada con el uso de un accesorio tipo abrazadera para fijar la mascarilla (95% a 99%) o con la técnica de nudos y pliegues (74%). Frente a sólo usar un respirador KN95, el uso de una mascarilla quirúrgica encima de un respirador KN95 aumenta la protección respiratoria de quien los usa (reducción de la exposición del 89%), aunque una modificación al respirador que optimice su ajuste como la adición de ligas elastoméricas para ajuste en la cabeza obtuvo mejores resultados (reducción del 97%). Si conjuntamente la fuente generadora de los aerosoles como el receptor usaban doble mascarilla, la reducción de la exposición fue del 96%, cuando la combinación consistió en una mascarilla de tela de algodón de 3 capas encima de una mascarilla quirúrgica. Resultados similares se obtuvieron si conjuntamente la fuente como el receptor usaban mascarillas quirúrgicas modificadas con la técnica de nudos y pliegues. Basados en la evidencia disponible, los mejores resultados, a partir de simulaciones en laboratorio, se observaron con el uso de doble mascarilla (mascarilla de tela de algodón de al menos 3 capas encima de una mascarilla quirúrgica), la combinación de una mascarilla quirúrgica encima de un respirador KN95 o con las modificaciones que optimicen el ajuste al rostro, como adicionar ligas elastoméricas para ajustar el respirador KN95 a la cabeza, emplear la técnica de nudos o pliegues en las mascarillas quirúrgicas o adicionar un accesorio de tipo abrazadera para fijar la mascarilla. No es posible establecer en qué medida estos resultados se traducirían con niveles de protección respiratoria en situaciones reales.
Asunto(s)
Humanos , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , COVID-19/prevención & control , Máscaras/provisión & distribución , Eficacia , Análisis Costo-BeneficioRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 is a respiratory virus. Transmission occurs by droplets, contact and aerosols. In medical settings, filtering facepiece (FFP) respirators are recommended for use by personnel exposed to aerosol-generating procedures. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for FFP respirators exceeded their supply worldwide and low-quality products appeared on the market, potentially putting healthcare workers at risk. AIMS: To raise awareness about variations in quality of imported FFP respirators in Switzerland during the COVID-19 pandemic, to draw attention to the current directives regulating the market launch of FFP respirators in Switzerland, to provide practical support in identifying suspicious products or documents and, finally, to offer strategies aimed at reducing the distribution of low-quality FFP respirators in the future. METHODS: Three Swiss laboratories, Spiez Laboratory and Unisanté in partnership with TOXpro SA individually set up testing procedures to evaluate aerosol penetration and fit testing of FFP respirators imported into Switzerland during COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Spiez Laboratory visually inspected the products, examined the certification documents and crosschecked the product information with international databases. RESULTS: Between 31 March and 15 June 2020, 151 FFP respirators were analysed. The initial assessment performed before testing allowed a reduction of up to 35% in the number of FFP respirators sent to Spiez Laboratory for evaluation, for which product information found to be faulty. After filtration efficiency evaluation and fit testing, 52% and 60% of all products tested by Spiez Laboratory and Unisanté-TOXpro SA, respectively, did not meet the minimum performance requirements established independently by the three Swiss laboratories. CONCLUSION: The demand for FFP respirators exceeded the supply capacity from established suppliers of the Swiss market. New production and import channels emerged, as did the number of poor-quality FFP respirators. FFP respirators remaining in stocks should be checked for conformity before being used, or eliminated and replaced if quality does not meet standards.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/prevención & control , Respiradores N95/normas , COVID-19/transmisión , Humanos , Técnicas In Vitro , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Etiquetado de Productos , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/normas , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , SuizaAsunto(s)
Antiinfecciosos Locales/administración & dosificación , Desinfección/normas , Equipo Reutilizado/normas , Peróxido de Hidrógeno/administración & dosificación , Respiradores N95/normas , Desinfección/métodos , Humanos , Máscaras/normas , Máscaras/provisión & distribución , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/normas , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/provisión & distribuciónRESUMEN
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers, including of N95 masks (filtering facepiece respirators; FFRs). These masks are intended for single use but their sterilization and subsequent reuse has the potential to substantially mitigate shortages. Here we investigate PPE sterilization using ionized hydrogen peroxide (iHP), generated by SteraMist equipment (TOMI; Frederick, MD), in a sealed environment chamber. The efficacy of sterilization by iHP was assessed using bacterial spores in biological indicator assemblies. After one or more iHP treatments, five models of N95 masks from three manufacturers were assessed for retention of function based on their ability to form an airtight seal (measured using a quantitative fit test) and filter aerosolized particles. Filtration testing was performed at a university lab and at a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) pre-certification laboratory. The data demonstrate that N95 masks sterilized using SteraMist iHP technology retain filtration efficiency up to ten cycles, the maximum number tested to date. A typical iHP environment chamber with a volume of ~ 80 m3 can treat ~ 7000 masks and other items (e.g. other PPE, iPADs), making this an effective approach for a busy medical center.
Asunto(s)
Peróxido de Hidrógeno/farmacología , Respiradores N95/virología , Equipo de Protección Personal/virología , Esterilización/métodos , COVID-19/epidemiología , COVID-19/prevención & control , Equipo Reutilizado/estadística & datos numéricos , Humanos , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Pandemias/prevención & control , Equipo de Protección Personal/provisión & distribución , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria , SARS-CoV-2/aislamiento & purificación , Estados Unidos/epidemiologíaRESUMEN
Shortages of N95 respirators for use by medical personnel have driven consideration of novel conservation strategies, including decontamination for reuse and extended use. Decontamination methods listed as promising by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (vaporous hydrogen peroxide (VHP), wet heat, ultraviolet irradiation (UVI)) and several methods considered for low resource environments (bleach, isopropyl alcohol and detergent/soap) were studied for two commonly used surgical N95 respirators (3M™ 1860 and 1870+ Aura™). Although N95 filtration performance depends on the electrostatically charged electret filtration layer, the impact of decontamination on this layer is largely unexplored. As such, respirator performance following decontamination was assessed based on the fit, filtration efficiency, and pressure drop, along with the relationship between (1) surface charge of the electret layer, and (2) elastic properties of the straps. Decontamination with VHP, wet heat, UVI, and bleach did not degrade fit and filtration performance or electret charge. Isopropyl alcohol and soap significantly degraded fit, filtration performance, and electret charge. Pressure drop across the respirators was unchanged. Modest degradation of N95 strap elasticity was observed in mechanical fatigue testing, a model for repeated donnings and doffings. CDC recommended decontamination methods including VHP, wet heat, and UV light did not degrade N95 respirator fit or filtration performance in these tests. Extended use of N95 respirators may degrade strap elasticity, but a loss of face seal integrity should be apparent during user seal checks. NIOSH recommends performing user seal checks after every donning to detect loss of appropriate fit. Decontamination methods which degrade electret charge such as alcohols or detergents should not be used on N95 respirators. The loss of N95 performance due to electret degradation would not be apparent to a respirator user or evident during a negative pressure user seal check.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/prevención & control , Descontaminación/métodos , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , 2-Propanol/farmacología , Detergentes/farmacología , Humanos , Peróxido de Hidrógeno/farmacología , SARS-CoV-2 , Hipoclorito de Sodio/farmacología , Electricidad Estática , Rayos UltravioletaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a severe shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), especially N95 respirators. Efficient, effective and economically feasible methods for large-scale PPE decontamination are urgently needed. AIMS: (1) to develop protocols for effectively decontaminating PPE using vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP); (2) to develop novel approaches that decrease set-up and take-down time while also increasing decontamination capacity; (3) to test decontamination efficiency for N95 respirators heavily contaminated by make-up or moisturizers. METHODS: We converted a decommissioned Biosafety Level 3 laboratory into a facility that could be used to decontaminate N95 respirators. N95 respirators were hung on metal racks, stacked in piles, placed in paper bags or covered with make-up or moisturizer. A VHP® VICTORY™ unit from STERIS was used to inject VHP into the facility. Biological and chemical indicators were used to validate the decontamination process. FINDINGS: N95 respirators individually hung on metal racks were successfully decontaminated using VHP. N95 respirators were also successfully decontaminated when placed in closed paper bags or if stacked in piles of up to six. Stacking reduced the time needed to arrange N95 respirators for decontamination by approximately two-thirds while almost tripling facility capacity. Make-up and moisturizer creams did not interfere with the decontamination process. CONCLUSIONS: Respirator stacking can reduce the hands-on time and increase decontamination capacity. When personalization is needed, respirators can be decontaminated in labelled paper bags. Make up or moisturizers do not appear to interfere with VHP decontamination.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/prevención & control , Descontaminación/métodos , Equipo Reutilizado , Respiradores N95/normas , Descontaminación/economía , Humanos , Peróxido de Hidrógeno/farmacología , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , VolatilizaciónRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Response to the COVID-19 pandemic by hospital systems has been strained by severe shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly N95 respirators. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endorsed decontamination strategies to prolong the lifespan of single use respirators. Battelle and Duke University have validated hospital protocols to decontaminate respirators using vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) at 30%-35% concentrations. To prolong our supply of respirators, we evaluated and implemented VHP decontamination at 59% hydrogen peroxide concentration while detailing the effects of this process on the filtration efficiency and quantitative fit of single-use respirators. This study may help other health systems develop local solutions to their N95 mask shortage during this COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: N95 respirators (3M 8211 FF and 9210 FF) that were treated with 5 and 10 cycles of VHP by the V-PRO maX Low Temperature Sterilization System were evaluated quantitatively for filtration efficiency as well as with quantitative fit testing per Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. A decontamination protocol was concurrently implemented at our institution. This process involved depositing used masks, reprocessing, and re-distributing treated masks efficiently back to frontline providers. Furthermore, we implemented patient safety officers on COVID-19/person under investigation units to ensure optimized donning/doffing of respirators through frontline provider education. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant changes in mean filtration efficiency between the control and VHP-treated respirators. Furthermore, both treated and untreated respirators demonstrated fit factors above the minimum pass requirement. CONCLUSIONS: We have successfully demonstrated that N95 respirator decontamination with VHP at 59% hydrogen peroxide can be safely utilized to decontaminate single-use N95 respirators without significant effects on filtration efficiency or quantitative fit testing. With the COVID-19 pandemic and N95 respirator shortage, health systems without access to commercial decontamination processes should investigate the viability of such a process in their facilities.
Asunto(s)
Antiinfecciosos Locales , Descontaminación/métodos , Equipo Reutilizado , Peróxido de Hidrógeno , Ensayo de Materiales , Respiradores N95 , COVID-19/prevención & control , Humanos , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Equipo de Protección Personal/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , Esterilización , VolatilizaciónRESUMEN
Given supply constraints of N95s in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare facilities have turned to extended use protocols and new sources of N95s. Because fit testing every employee for every new mask is not feasible, our Infection Prevention Department developed a method for rapid deployment of new N95s.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/prevención & control , Atención a la Salud/organización & administración , Personal de Salud , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Estados Unidos/epidemiologíaRESUMEN
OBJECTIVES: To examine the relationship between perceived adequacy of personal protective equipment (PPE) and workplace-based infection control procedures (ICP) and mental health symptoms among a sample of health-care workers in Canada within the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A convenience-based internet survey of health-care workers in Canada was facilitated through various labor organizations between April 7 and May 13, 2020. A total of 7,298 respondents started the survey, of which 5,988 reported information on the main exposures and outcomes. Anxiety symptoms were assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-2) screener, and depression symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2) screener. We assessed the perceived need and adequacy of 8 types of PPE and 10 different ICP. Regression analyses examined the proportion of GAD-2 and PHQ-2 scores of 3 and higher across levels of PPE and ICP, adjusted for a range of demographic, occupation, workplace, and COVID-19-specific measures. RESULTS: A total of 54.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 53.5% to 56.1%) of the sample had GAD-2 scores of 3 and higher, and 42.3% (95% CI, 41.0% to 43.6%) of the sample had PHQ-2 scores of 3 and higher. Absolute differences of 18% (95% CI, 12% to 23%) and 17% (95% CI, 12% to 22%) were observed in the prevalence of GAD-2 scores of 3 and higher between workers whose perceived PPE needs and ICP needs were met compared to those who needs were not met. Differences of between 11% (95% CI, 6% to 17%) and 19% (95% CI, 14% to 24%) were observed in PHQ-2 scores of 3 and higher across these same PPE and ICP categories. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest strengthening employer-based infection control strategies likely has important implications for the mental health symptoms among health-care workers in Canada.
Asunto(s)
Ansiedad/psicología , COVID-19/prevención & control , Depresión/psicología , Personal de Salud/psicología , Control de Infecciones/normas , Salud Laboral , Equipo de Protección Personal/provisión & distribución , Factores de Edad , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Actitud del Personal de Salud , Canadá/epidemiología , Estudios Transversales , Depresión/epidemiología , Dispositivos de Protección de los Ojos/provisión & distribución , Femenino , Personal de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Humanos , Masculino , Máscaras/provisión & distribución , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Cuestionario de Salud del Paciente , Percepción , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , Factores Sexuales , Vestimenta Quirúrgica/provisión & distribución , Encuestas y CuestionariosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has severely affected ICUs and critical care health-care providers (HCPs) worldwide. RESEARCH QUESTION: How do regional differences and perceived lack of ICU resources affect critical care resource use and the well-being of HCPs? STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Between April 23 and May 7, 2020, we electronically administered a 41-question survey to interdisciplinary HCPs caring for patients critically ill with COVID-19. The survey was distributed via critical care societies, research networks, personal contacts, and social media portals. Responses were tabulated according to World Bank region. We performed multivariate log-binomial regression to assess factors associated with three main outcomes: limiting mechanical ventilation (MV), changes in CPR practices, and emotional distress and burnout. RESULTS: We included 2,700 respondents from 77 countries, including physicians (41%), nurses (40%), respiratory therapists (11%), and advanced practice providers (8%). The reported lack of ICU nurses was higher than that of intensivists (32% vs 15%). Limiting MV for patients with COVID-19 was reported by 16% of respondents, was lowest in North America (10%), and was associated with reduced ventilator availability (absolute risk reduction [ARR], 2.10; 95% CI, 1.61-2.74). Overall, 66% of respondents reported changes in CPR practices. Emotional distress or burnout was high across regions (52%, highest in North America) and associated with being female (mechanical ventilation, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.01-1.33), being a nurse (ARR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.13-1.53), reporting a shortage of ICU nurses (ARR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.05-1.33), reporting a shortage of powered air-purifying respirators (ARR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.09-1.55), and experiencing poor communication from supervisors (ARR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.16-1.46). INTERPRETATION: Our findings demonstrate variability in ICU resource availability and use worldwide. The high prevalence of provider burnout and its association with reported insufficient resources and poor communication from supervisors suggest a need for targeted interventions to support HCPs on the front lines.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/terapia , Cuidados Críticos , Personal de Salud/psicología , Recursos en Salud , Fuerza Laboral en Salud , Equipo de Protección Personal/provisión & distribución , Agotamiento Profesional/psicología , Enfermería de Cuidados Críticos , Femenino , Estrés Financiero/psicología , Asignación de Recursos para la Atención de Salud , Capacidad de Camas en Hospitales , Humanos , Masculino , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Enfermeras y Enfermeros/psicología , Enfermeras y Enfermeros/provisión & distribución , Médicos/psicología , Médicos/provisión & distribución , Distrés Psicológico , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/provisión & distribución , Órdenes de Resucitación , SARS-CoV-2 , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Ventiladores Mecánicos/provisión & distribuciónRESUMEN
Most respirators employed in health care settings, and often in first responder and industrial settings, are intended for single-use: the user dons the respirator, performs a work activity, and then doffs and discards the respirator. However, in the current COVID-19 pandemic, in the presence of persistent shortages of personal protective equipment, extended use and reuse of filtering facepiece respirators are routinely contemplated by many health care organizations. Further, there is considerable current effort to understand the effect of sterilization on the possibility of reuse, and some investigations of performance have been conducted. While the ability of such a respirator to continue to provide effective protection after repeated sanitization cycles is a critical component of implementing its reuse, of equal importance is an understanding of the impact that reusing the respirator multiple times in a day while performing work tasks, and even extending its wear over multiple days, has on the workplace protective performance. In this study, we subjected a stockpiled quantitatively fitted surgical style N95 filtering facepiece respirator device to extreme reuse and extended wear conditions (up to 19 uses over a duration of 5 days) and measured its protective performance at regular intervals, including simulated workplace protection factor measurements using total inward leakage. With this respirator, it was shown to be possible to maintain protection corresponding to an assigned protection factor greater than 10 under extreme usage conditions provided an individual is properly trained in the use of, and expertly fitted in, the respirator. Other factors such as hygiene and strap breakage are likely to place limits on reuse.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/prevención & control , Equipo Reutilizado/estadística & datos numéricos , Transmisión de Enfermedad Infecciosa de Paciente a Profesional/prevención & control , Respiradores N95/normas , Exposición Profesional/prevención & control , Adulto , COVID-19/transmisión , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Ensayo de Materiales , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , EsterilizaciónRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To characterise published evidence regarding preclinical and clinical interventions to overcome mask shortages during epidemics and pandemics. DESIGN: Systematic scoping review. SETTINGS: All healthcare settings relevant to epidemics and pandemics. SEARCH STRATEGY: English peer-reviewed studies published from January 1995 to June 2020 were included. Literature was identified using four databases (Medline-OVID, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library), forwards-and-backwards searching through Scopus and an extensive grey literature search. Assessment of study eligibility, data extraction and evidence appraisal were performed in duplicate by two independent reviewers. RESULTS: Of the 11 220 database citations, a total of 47 articles were included. These studies encompassed six broad categories of conservation strategies: decontamination, reusability of disposable masks and/or extended wear, layering, reusable respirators, non-traditional replacements or modifications and stockpiled masks. Promising strategies for mask conservation in the context of pandemics and epidemics include use of stockpiled masks, extended wear of disposable masks and decontamination. CONCLUSION: There are promising strategies for overcoming face mask shortages during epidemics and pandemics. Further research specific to practical considerations is required before implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19 , Personal de Salud , Control de Infecciones/métodos , Máscaras/provisión & distribución , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Pandemias , SARS-CoV-2 , COVID-19/prevención & control , COVID-19/transmisión , COVID-19/virología , Atención a la Salud , Equipo Reutilizado , Humanos , Dispositivos de Protección RespiratoriaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has significantly impacted the health of millions of people around the world. The shortage of personal protective equipment, including N95 respirators, in hospital facilities has put frontline healthcare professionals at high risk for contracting this virus. AIM: To develop a reproducible and safe N95 respirator reprocessing method that satisfies all presented regulatory standards and that can be directly implemented by hospitals using existing available equipment. METHODS: A non-toxic gravity steam reprocessing method has been developed for the reuse of N95 respirators consisting of 30 min of steam treatment at 121°C followed by 30 min of heat drying. Samples of model number 1860, 1860s, 1870+, and 9105 N95 respirators were either collected from hospitals (for microbiology testing) or purchased new (for functionality testing), with all functionality tests (i.e. filter efficiency, fit evaluation, and strap integrity) performed at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention using standard procedures established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. FINDINGS: All tested models passed the minimum filter efficiency of 95% after three cycles of gravity steam reprocessing. The 1870+ N95 respirator model is the most promising model for reprocessing based on its efficient bacterial inactivation coupled with the maintenance of all other key functional respirator properties after multiple reprocessing steps. CONCLUSIONS: The gravity steam method can effectively reprocess N95 respirators over at least three reprocessing cycles without negatively impacting the functionality requirements set out by regulators. Enabling the reuse of N95 respirators is a crucial tool for managing both the current pandemic and future healthcare crises.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/transmisión , Equipo Reutilizado/normas , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Vapor/efectos adversos , Esterilización/instrumentación , COVID-19/diagnóstico , COVID-19/epidemiología , COVID-19/virología , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S./organización & administración , Descontaminación/métodos , Transmisión de Enfermedad Infecciosa/prevención & control , Instituciones de Salud/normas , Instituciones de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Humanos , Respiradores N95/normas , National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, U.S./organización & administración , Equipo de Protección Personal/provisión & distribución , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/normas , Dispositivos de Protección Respiratoria/virología , SARS-CoV-2/genética , Estados UnidosRESUMEN
Importance: Procuring respiratory protection for clinicians and other health care workers has become a major challenge of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and has resulted in nonstandard practices such as the use of expired respirators and various decontamination processes to prolong the useful life of respirators in health care settings. In addition, imported, non-National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved respirators have been donated or acquired by hospitals as a potential replacement for limited NIOSH-approved N95 respirators. Objective: To assess fitted filtration efficiencies (FFEs) for face mask alternatives used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design, Setting, and Participants: For this quality-improvement study conducted between April and June 2020, we used the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol for Filtering Facepiece Respirators in a laboratory atmosphere supplemented with sodium chloride particles to assess the FFEs of a variety of respirators worn by a male volunteer and female volunteer. Main Outcomes and Measures: The FFEs of respirators commonly worn by clinicians and other health care workers and available respirator alternatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Of the 29 different fitted face mask alternatives tested on 1 man and 1 woman, expired N95 respirators with intact elastic straps and respirators subjected to ethylene oxide and hydrogen peroxide sterilization had unchanged FFE (>95%). The performance of N95 respirators in the wrong size had slightly decreased performance (90%-95% FFE). All of the respirators not listed as approved in this evaluation (n = 6) failed to achieve 95% FFE. Neither of the 2 imported respirators authorized for use by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that were not NIOSH-approved tested in this study achieved 95% FFE, and the more effective of the 2 functioned at approximately 80% FFE. Surgical and procedural face masks had filtering performance that was lower relative to that of N95 respirators (98.5% overall FFE), with procedural face masks secured with elastic ear loops showing the lowest efficiency (38.1% overall FFE). Conclusions and Relevance: This quality-improvement study evaluating 29 face mask alternatives for use by clinicians interacting with patients during the COVID-19 pandemic found that expired N95 respirators and sterilized, used N95 respirators can be used when new N95 respirators are not available. Other alternatives may provide less effective filtration.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19 , Equipo Reutilizado/normas , Filtración/normas , Control de Infecciones/instrumentación , Transmisión de Enfermedad Infecciosa de Paciente a Profesional/prevención & control , Máscaras , Respiradores N95 , Esterilización , COVID-19/epidemiología , COVID-19/prevención & control , COVID-19/transmisión , Desinfectantes , Contaminación de Equipos/prevención & control , Análisis de Falla de Equipo/métodos , Óxido de Etileno/farmacología , Personal de Salud , Humanos , Peróxido de Hidrógeno/farmacología , Máscaras/clasificación , Máscaras/normas , Máscaras/provisión & distribución , Ensayo de Materiales/métodos , Respiradores N95/normas , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Mejoramiento de la Calidad , SARS-CoV-2 , Esterilización/métodos , Esterilización/normasRESUMEN
Importance: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has proven to be highly infectious, putting health care professionals around the world at increased risk. Furthermore, there are widespread shortages of necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) for these individuals. Filtering facepiece respirators, such as the N95 respirator, intended for single use, can be reused in times of need. We explore the evidence for decontamination or sterilization of N95 respirators for health care systems seeking to conserve PPE while maintaining the health of their workforce. Observations: The filtration properties and fit of N95 respirators must be preserved to function adequately over multiple uses. Studies have shown that chemical sterilization using soap and water, alcohols, and bleach render the respirator nonfunctional. Decontamination with microwave heat and high dry heat also result in degradation of respirator material. UV light, steam, low-dry heat, and commercial sterilization methods with ethylene oxide or vaporized hydrogen peroxide appear to be viable options for successful decontamination. Furthermore, since the surface viability of the novel coronavirus is presumed to be 72 hours, rotating N95 respirator use and allowing time decontamination of the respirators is also a reasonable option. We describe a protocol and best practice recommendations for redoffing decontaminated N95 and rotating N95 respirator use. Conclusions and Relevance: COVID-19 presents a high risk for health care professionals, particularly otolaryngologists, owing to the nature of viral transmission, including possible airborne transmission and high viral load in the upper respiratory tract. Proper PPE is effective when used correctly, but in times of scarce resources, institutions may turn to alternative methods of preserving and reusing filtering facepiece respirators. Based on studies conducted on the decontamination of N95 respirators after prior outbreaks, there are several options for institutions to consider for both immediate and large-scale implementation.
Asunto(s)
Descontaminación/métodos , Respiradores N95/virología , COVID-19/transmisión , Protocolos Clínicos , Dispositivos de Protección de los Ojos , Guantes Protectores , Desinfección de las Manos , Humanos , Transmisión de Enfermedad Infecciosa de Paciente a Profesional/prevención & control , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , SARS-CoV-2 , Factores de TiempoRESUMEN
PURPOSE: Under times of supply chain stress, the availability of some medical equipment and supplies may become limited. The current pandemic involving severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has highlighted limitations to the ordinary provision of personal protective equipment (PPE). For perioperative healthcare workers, N95 masks provide a stark example of PPE in short supply necessitating the creation of scientifically valid protocols for their decontamination and reuse. METHODS: We performed a systematic literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL databases, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify peer-reviewed articles related to N95 mask decontamination and subsequent testing for the integrity of mask filtration and facial seal. To expand this search, we additionally surveyed the official statements from key health agencies, organizations, and societies for relevant citations. RESULTS: Our initial database search resulted in five articles that met inclusion criteria, with 26 articles added from the expanded search. Our search did not reveal any relevant randomized clinical trials or cohort studies. We found that moist mask heating (65-80°C at 50-85% relative humidity for 20-30 min) and vaporous hydrogen peroxide treatment were supported by the literature to provide consistent viral decontamination without compromising mask seal and filtration efficiency. Other investigated decontamination methods lacked comprehensive scientific evidence for all three of these key criteria. CONCLUSIONS: N95 mask reprocessing using either moist heat or vaporous hydrogen peroxide is recommended to ensure healthcare worker safety.
RéSUMé: OBJECTIF: Lorsque les chaînes d'approvisionnement sont mises sous pression, la disponibilité de certains équipements et fournitures médicaux pourrait devenir restreinte. La pandémie actuelle du syndrome respiratoire aigu sévère du coronavirus 2 a mis en lumière les limites de l'approvisionnement usuel des équipements de protection individuelle (EPI). Pour les travailleurs de la santé périopératoires, les masques N95 sont un exemple frappant d'EPI pouvant rapidement venir à manquer et nécessitant l'élaboration de protocoles scientifiquement rigoureux pour leur décontamination et leur réutilisation. MéTHODE: Nous avons réalisé une recherche de littérature systématique dans les bases de données MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL et sur ClinicalTrials.gov afin d'identifier les articles révisés par les pairs portant sur la décontamination des masques N95 et les tests subséquents pour vérifier l'intégrité de la filtration du masque et son étanchéité sur le visage. Afin d'étendre notre recherche, nous avons également passé en revue les énoncés officiels émanant des agences de santé, ainsi que des organismes et sociétés médicales majeurs pour en extraire les citations pertinentes. RéSULTATS: Notre recherche initiale des bases de données nous a permis d'extraire cinq articles respectant nos critères d'inclusion, et 26 articles ont été ajoutés à la suite de notre recherche étendue. Notre recherche n'a pas découvert d'études cliniques randomisées ou d'études de cohorte pertinentes. Nous avons observé que la décontamination du masque par chaleur humide (6580°C à une humidité relative de 5085 % pendant 20-30 min) et le traitement par vapeur de peroxyde d'hydrogène constituaient les deux mesures endossées par la littérature. En effet, ces modalités offrent une décontamination virale constante sans pour autant compromettre l'étanchéité du masque ou son efficacité de filtration. Les autres méthodes de décontamination étudiées ne possédaient pas de données probantes scientifiques exhaustives quant à ces trois critères clés. CONCLUSION: Le retraitement des masques N95 à l'aide de chaleur humide ou de vapeur de peroxyde d'oxygène est recommandé pour assurer la sécurité des travailleurs de la santé.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19/prevención & control , Descontaminación/métodos , Respiradores N95/normas , Equipo Reutilizado/normas , Filtración , Personal de Salud , Calor , Humanos , Respiradores N95/provisión & distribución , Respiradores N95/virología , SARS-CoV-2RESUMEN
N95 respirators are personal protective equipment most often used to control exposures to infections transmitted via the airborne route. Supplies of N95 respirators can become depleted during pandemics or when otherwise in high demand. In this paper, we offer strategies for optimizing supplies of N95 respirators in health care settings while maximizing the level of protection offered to health care personnel when there is limited supply in the United States during the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic. The strategies are intended for use by professionals who manage respiratory protection programs, occupational health services, and infection prevention programs in health care facilities to protect health care personnel from job-related risks of exposure to infectious respiratory illnesses. Consultation with federal, state, and local public health officials is also important. We use the framework of surge capacity and the occupational health and safety hierarchy of controls approach to discuss specific engineering control, administrative control, and personal protective equipment measures that may help in optimizing N95 respirator supplies.