[MCOH-EH] Are some brands of N95 masks superior to others?

[Thanassi, Wendy]

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.
[https://www.healthykin.com/images/Product/large/4787.jpg]
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

[Description: Description: cid:image001.jpg at 01CE4591.3F9AB100]
Providing the best Occupational Medicine Care Anywhere-for VHA Employees and Veterans
VHAOccupationalEnviroMedConsult at va.gov<mailto:VHAOccupationalEnviroMedConsult at va.gov>  or https://vaww.portal.va.gov/sites/ohshg/OEMedicineConsults

From: MCOH-EH [mailto:mcoh-eh-bounces at mylist.net] On Behalf Of Tim Crump
Sent: Thursday, April 27, 2017 11:46 AM
To: 'MCOH/EH'
Cc: Tammy Wade
Subject: [EXTERNAL] [MCOH-EH] Are some brands of N95 masks superior to others?

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 at ohsu.edu<mailto:crumpt at ohsu.edu>

Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8-4:30

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