Methods for n95 respirator decontamination and reuse during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Abstract:

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic threatens public health worldwide, and healthcare professionals are at increased risk due to their close contact with patients. NIOSH-certified N95 respirators filter 95% of airborne particles and are therefore currently recommended by the Center for Disease Control for use by healthcare professionals in the face of the pandemic. The shortage of protective equipment, including N95 respirators, has generated the need for the rationing of this resource. The objective of this systemic review is to identify effective methods for decontamination of N95 respirators that maintain their filtration and fit properties for reuse. A search of digital resources was performed in databases: Pubmed, medRxiv, IJOS, Scielo, Elsevier; systemic analysis, meta-analysis, clinical trials were received. Based on the results obtained, it can be determined that vaporized hydrogen peroxide and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation are the most recommended methods, due to their germicidal efficacy, in addition to maintaining the filtration and adjustment capacity of the respirator. Further research is needed to ge-nerate protocols that allow the safe reuse of this resource.

Año de publicación:

2021

Keywords:

• reuse
• Basic protective equipment
• disinfection
• N95 respirator
• covid-19
• SARS-COV-2
• Decontamination

Fuente:

scopus