We do not have evidence, but the VFLEX 1805 by 3M is much more moldable/flexible and therefore in our experience has better fit profile. We switched to this one.

Wendy

Wendy Thanassi MA, MD

Chief, Occupational Health Service

Office of the Deputy Director

Palo Alto VAHCS, California

650-493-5000 x 11-65214

Associate Professor Affiliated

Stanford Hospital and Clinics

Providing the best Occupational Medicine Care Anywhere—for VHA Employees and Veterans

VHAOccupationalEnviroMedConsult@va.gov  or https://vaww.portal.va.gov/sites/ohshg/OEMedicineConsults

Hello Everyone, We have had a frustrating experience in our N95 mask fit testing, in that we find that more than 1/3 cannot wear our brand of N95 mask.  In many cases this is due to men with facial hair, etc, but we also have a large number of employees who just fail the fit test twice and go onto our PAPR list for respirator protection.  For staff in surgical services, where PAPRs may not be an option, we can be really stuck.  We use the Kimberly-Clark N95 mask that comes in a regular and small size.

I have heard anecdotal reports that the 3M N95 has better success rates.  Does anyone have experiences or evidence on this topic?  Given that 3M has several different N95 models, is there one type that works best in the hospital setting?  Thank you for any input or advice.  Best, Tim

Tim Crump, MSN, FNP

Tim Crump, MSN, FNP

Family Nurse Practitioner

Occupational Health

Healthcare Human Resources

Oregon Health & Science University

3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd

Mail code: UHN 89

Portland, OR 97239-3098

Department Phone: 503-494-5271

Office Phone: 503-346-1152

Fax: 503-494-4457

Email: crumpt@ohsu.edu

Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8-4:30

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