[MCOH-EH] N-95 respirator fitting and those with beards

[Cindy Hansen]

I would like to query the group on what you do at your organizations for those staff with beards unable to be fit tested for an N-95.  We have PAPR's but typically not used in the past for airborne isolation.  Would like to see any policy or written protocols on how you handle these folks.  Obviously Beards trending most recently and now we go into the winter months even more prevalent….even here in the south.  Our roundtable discussion mentioned HR implications, practice, job descriptions, shaving on site if assigned an airborne isolation patient.   Also, do your policies have variability/flexibility in respect to the depts?  For example, our IP rehab unit does not have a negative pressure room and would not be sent anyone still on active isolation so we will likely exclude this folks from even being tested.  Appreciate any responses….my email Chansen at mhg.com<mailto:Chansen at mhg.com>.

Thank you.

Cindy Hansen, RN, MSN, CCM, CSIWCP
Employee Health Manager
Ph:  228-867-4174
Fax:  228-867-4080



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