Korean J healthc assoc Infect Control Prev.  2024 Dec;29(2):137-145. 10.14192/kjicp.2024.29.2.137.

Evaluation of N95 Respirator Fit Changes in Nurses Working in High-risk Airborne Infection Units

• Han SH
• Cha KS
• Lee H
• Choung Y

• KMID: 2563519
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14192/kjicp.2024.29.2.137

Abstract

Background
Healthcare workers (HCWs) face an increased risk of airborne infections owing to close patient contact and extended shifts. N95 respirators require routine fit testing to ensure effective protection. This study assessed the fit stability of N95 masks among nurses working in airborne infection units, using annual fit tests to observe changes over time.
Methods
From May 2020 to January 2023, 37 nurses from the high-risk airborne infection units of a university hospital participated in this study. The fit tests followed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Quantitative Fit Testing protocol, and non-parametric statistical analyses were applied. Nurses received formal annual training on N95 mask use and individualized guidance before each fit test.
Results
In the initial test, 46.0% passed; of these, 15 consistently passed the second test (Group 1, Pass-Pass) and 2 failed (Group 2, Pass-Fail). No significant associations were found between demographic or job factors and the fit test outcomes. Average fit scores decreased from 100.79 (±58.22) initially to 32.25 (±66.54) in the second test, showing variability.
Conclusion
Ongoing training and experience improved fit consistency over time, emphasizing the importance of regular education. Rather than testing annually, targeted testing when selecting a new respirator or performing subsequent facial changes may enhance the protection of HCWs and reduce costs.

Keyword

Communicable disease; Infections; Respiratory; Respiratory protective devices; Transmission