METHODS: cross-sectional study. Structural and morphological characteristics of a new N95/PFF2 mask were analyzed in comparison with N95/PFF2 masks (n=10) used in seven- and fifteen-day protocols, through visual inspection and scanning electron microscopy.
RESULTS: upon visual inspection, following the seven-day protocol, 40% and 60% of the N95/PFF2 masks showed, respectively, personal identification marks and external and internal dirt. Additionally, 20% exhibited loosening and/or tearing of the straps, while 100% showed some type of damage to the nose clips. In the fifteen-day protocol, all N95/PFF2 masks had dirt, loose straps and damaged nose clips, and 80% had folds. Electronic microscopy revealed an increase in pores and loosening in the weaves from seven days onwards, extending up to fifteen days, with the presence of micro holes and residues.
CONCLUSIONS: the reuse of N95/PFF2 masks affects their structural and morphological integrity. It is crucial to carry out tests to measure the impact of this practice on the safety of health professionals.
方法:横断面研究。与7天和15天方案中使用的N95/PFF2口罩(n=10)相比,分析了新N95/PFF2口罩的结构和形态特征。通过视觉检查和扫描电子显微镜。
结果:目视检查后,按照七天的协议,40%和60%的N95/PFF2口罩显示,分别,个人识别标记和外部和内部污垢。此外,20%的表带出现松动和/或撕裂,而100%显示鼻夹有某种类型的损伤。在15天的协议中,所有N95/PFF2口罩都有污垢,松脱的带子和损坏的鼻夹,80%有褶皱。电子显微镜显示,从7天开始,毛孔增加和编织松动,延长至十五天,存在微孔和残留物。
结论:重复使用N95/PFF2掩模会影响其结构和形态完整性。进行测试以衡量这种做法对卫生专业人员安全的影响至关重要。