Choosing a Powered Air Purifying Respirator
Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) provide the wearer with clean filtered air powered through a breathing tube that connects to a loose or tight fitting PAPR facepiece. This technology provides comfort, flexibility and protection against a variety of occupational hazards.
A papr respirator a more comfortable option than a full face mask and may reduce fatigue and strain for healthcare workers during extended shifts. PAPRs are also designed to help with eye and hearing protection, allowing for better vision while wearing the device. Additionally, some devices have integrated face shields that offer additional protection from splash and debris, reducing the risk of contamination to eyes and hands.
Many healthcare organizations are using PAPRs in their respiratory protection programs, including for critical care and other services during the pandemic. However, there is limited evidence on the efficacy of these devices in preventing infection and there are a number of considerations that should be taken into account when choosing a PAPR for your organization.
How to Choose the Right PAPR Respirator for Your Needs
Some of the concerns include the potential effect on the sterile field with PAPRs, as these devices vent or exhaust air outside the head covering. It is recommended to choose a PAPR model that allows the user to turn off or direct the blower/exhaust away from the head covering. The hood style PAPRs hang lower over the body versus loose-fitting head covers and this difference may also impact the sterile field.
Other factors to consider include training, donning/doffing challenges, transportation issues, compatibility with radios and the potential for contamination during doffing or removal of the device. These considerations are important for ensuring that the use of PAPRs in your health care setting is safe and effective.