Whenever high risk procedures such as bronchoscopy or autopsy are conducted, respiratory protection exceeding the CDC standard performance criteria may be needed. Since this type of respirator exhausts air contaminated by the user, it should not be worn during sterile procedures. Hoods, helmets, and facepiece exhalation valves allow droplets and particles to escape, potentially spreading any contagious particles to the surgical field by the health care worker. This type of respirator usually provides better protection than the other types already mentioned. The PAPR is easier to breathe through, more comfortable, and enough air is delivered to the facepiece, hood or helmet that leakage is usually outward.
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Additional Information PAPRs utilizing half-mask and full facepieces are usually available in three sizes. Filters should be thrown away when they become physically damaged or soiled. This type of respirator should be used when disposable, reusable respirators, or PAPRs do not provide adequate protection. Your employer should perform a risk assessment to identify situations in your health-care facility that might require the use of this advanced level of respiratory protection. A face shield may also be used in conjunction with a half-mask airline respirator for protection against body fluids.