PAPR Respirator
Unlike non-integrated PPE that workers put together from different companies, PAPRs are designed to work as one cohesive “system” to provide uncompromised range of movement while providing clean, filtered air. Some systems offer integrated hard hat, limited eye protection and face and respiratory protection all in the same unit. Additionally, some PAPR blowers can be used with other types of headgear, such as welding helmets.
Papr respirator require a health assessment and instruction in use before they can be used. Many have an assigned protection factor (APF) higher than N95s, which means they are less likely to allow viral transmission of COVID-19.
Although a number of authors have recommended PAPRs for critical care of COVID-19 patients, the uptake at health care institutions has been low. Some of the challenges have included concerns that the PAPR’s motor hissing noise may be disturbing to patients, and the potential for claustrophobia from wearing the hood-style units [51, 52].
PAPR vs. N95: Which Respirator Offers Better Protection
Health care administrators have been developing strategies to facilitate the use of PAPRs. Some have used PAPRs on wheels to allow for rapid deployment to patient areas, while others have used central supply PAPR systems that are repurposed after each use to be returned to central supply for disinfection and cleaning. The CDC recommends following manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfection to extend the life of PAPRs.…