Practices around the use of masks and respirators among hospital health care workers in 3 diverse populations

Am J Infect Control. 2015 Oct 1;43(10):1116-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2015.05.041. Epub 2015 Jul 13.

Abstract

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 89 secondary- and tertiary-level hospitals in 3 countries, and samples of masks and respirators were also collected and examined. Results showed varied practices around the use of masks and respirators, which are probably influenced by the available resources and local recommendations. Nonstandardized practices are common in low-resource settings, which may be placing health care workers at risk.

Keywords: Avian influenza; Infectious diseases; Influenza; Pandemic influenza; Tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cross Infection / prevention & control*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious / prevention & control*
  • Health Personnel
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Masks / statistics & numerical data*
  • Ventilators, Mechanical / statistics & numerical data*