Physiological effects of wearing N95 respirator on medical staff during prolong work hours in Covid-19 departments

Source avec lien : Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, (En ligne). 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002542

L’objectif de la présente étude était de déterminer les anomalies de l’échange gazeux et les changements physiologiques chez les travailleurs de la santé pendant un quart de travail de 4 heures au service des urgences (ED) tout en portant le respirateur N95.

Objective:  The objective of the current study was to determine gas exchange abnormalities and physiological changes among healthcare workers during a 4-hour emergency department (ED) shift while wearing the N95 respirator. Methods:  Single-center prospective observational study. Comparisons of paired measurements were performed using a non-parametric Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test. Results:  41 subjects were included. Prolonged N95 respirator use was associated with a significant decline in plasma pH [7.35mmHg vs. 7.34mmHg, P=0.02], PvO2 [23.2 mmHg vs. 18.6 mmHg, P<0.001] and a concurrent increase in EtCO2 [32.5mmHg vs. 38.5mmHg, p<0.0001]. PvCO2 and bicarbonate levels did not differ. No significant change was observed for heart rate or oxygen saturation. Conclusion:  Using an N95 respirator for prolonged periods by healthcare professionals may provoke changes in gas exchange. The clinical significance of these changes remains to be determined. Consultez la page de l’article

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