Elastomeric (P3 r cartage) respirators are safer and more
sustainable alternatives to disposable N95
masks during the coronavirus outbreak
International Journal of
Emergency Medicine
A study done in Wuhan where COVID-19 had its initial outbreak found that aerosolized viral particles were detectable in high concentrations
in rooms where providers were doffing PPE,
and the majority of these particles were 0.25 to 0.5 μm. Another study has found that aerosolized viral particles of COVID-19 are detectable in the air 3 h after aerosolization [11]. Based on this evidence, proper protective equipment against aerosols and the safe removal of PPE are crucial for prevention of coronavirus infection in the healthcare setting. Reusing disposable N95 masks potentially
exposes patients and workers to considerable infection
In this regard, respirator masks with particulate (P3 R Canister) filters can be used for an extremely long duration, at least 1 year, so long as
the filter is not damaged or soiled [15].
Evidence shows that coronavirus remains detectable and viable on varioussurfaces up to 3 days [11]. It can then be extrapolated that once these viral particles are trapped in the electrostatic filters, they will slowly die over several days,
negating the need to change viral filters frequently.
Given the current short supply of disposable N95 masks, this advantage can potentially allow one respirator mask to replace using hundreds to potentially thousands ofnew disposable N95 masks. Elastomeric respirators also differ from disposable N95 masks in that they have a separate exhale vent, and exhaled air does not travel through the contaminated filter and re-aerosolize trapped viral particles. This is in contrast
to disposable N95 masks, which when re-used may
carry an increased risk of transferring viral particles from one patient to another.
Better fit and seal National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved (P3 R masks) have nonpowered particulate filter efficiency class to 99.97% filtration of particulates down to 0.3 μm, respectively. There are three levels of oil-particle resistance, N for no resistance, R for some oil resistance, and P for being completely oil proof [16].
Each user needs to be fit-tested for these respirator masks to be effective [17]. However, several studies show that healthcare professionals that do not frequently use N95 masks or wear masks for an extended duration tend to have inadequate seal. Nearly half of healthcare professionals who repeat a fit test 3 months after passing a fit test end up failing the second fit test [18]. (PAPRs), elastomeric respirators are still superior and preferred options over disposable respirators, especially given the severe shortage and increasing cases of healthcare professional infected with coronavirus. Currently, the CDC recommends that health care providers that will be within 3 ft of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patient without a mask, or if providers are in the room for an aerosolizing procedure, the provider may voluntarily utilize higher level of protection than N95 masks, such as elastomeric respirators or PAPR. The American Academy of Emergency Physicians and American Association of Nurse Anesthetists have made official statements that
support healthcare providers using self-supplied
NIOSH-approved PPE to feel safe or if it is inadequately provided [23, 24]. Download the coplete study below
Electro resperators better then N95
Chiang et al. International Journal of Emergency Medicine (2020) 13:39
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12245-020-00296-8