Evaluating N95 respirator designs: A mixed-methods pilot and feasibility study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had a global impact, underscoring the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE). Use of N95s reduces the risk of airborne infection; however, in the absence of equitable designs, health care workers (HCWs) who do not fit the average White male head and face are at an increased risk of airborne infectious diseases.

Objectives

Primary: Feasibility of a mixed-method study, with a sample size of 100, 50% of participants self-identifying as non-White and having at least one characteristic of interest. Secondary: (1) Generate quantitative evidence on N95 fit using a PortaCount fit test, (2) describe participant-reported feelings on fit and breathability, and (3) evaluate the impacts of the pandemic

SUBMITTER: Sheikh F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12674537 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature