A framework for comparing N95 and elastomeric facepiece respirators on cost and function for healthcare use during a pandemic- A literature review

Ceilidh Bray; Peter T Vanberkel

doi:10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104857

A framework for comparing N95 and elastomeric facepiece respirators on cost and function for healthcare use during a pandemic- A literature review

Health Policy. 2023 Aug:134:104857. doi: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104857. Epub 2023 Jun 7.

Authors

Ceilidh Bray¹, Peter T Vanberkel²

Affiliations

¹ Dalhousie University, Industrial Engineering, PO BOX 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
² Dalhousie University, Industrial Engineering, PO BOX 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada. Electronic address: peter.vanberkel@dal.ca.

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 has posed implications for personal protective equipment supply. In this literature review we examine if elastomeric facepiece respirators (EFRs) are effective substitutes for N95 respirators through comparing their functionality and cost. We reviewed 30 articles which researched the advantages and disadvantages of each respirator. We compiled the reported results and found, among other things, that users favour N95 respirators for comfort but prefer EFRs for protection. EFRs are more cost effective when N95s are used as designed (single use) but mixed strategies minimize costs when N95s are reused (as practiced during shortages). Future research is needed on multicriteria analyses and to incorporate SARS-CoV-2 specific data to support future pandemic planning.

Keywords: Covid-19; Literature review; N95 respirators; Personal protective equipment.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

COVID-19* / prevention & control
Delivery of Health Care
Humans
Pandemics / prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2*
Ventilators, Mechanical