FAQ on the N95 Respirator Uses and Limitations

Who Should Not and Cannot Wear the N 95 Masks in Swine Flu?

Sep 20, 2009 Hanish Babu

Frequently asked questions on the uses and limitations of the N95 respirators and masks are discussed in this article.

There are some individuals in whom the use of N95 respirators are contraindicated, even if they are in immediate danger of contracting infectious diseases like the H1N1 flu. And, there are also others who cannot wear the N95 respirators and masks. Finally, the N95 respirators have also got some absolute limitations which restrict its use in some individuals.

Who Should Not Wear N95 Masks/Respirators?

N95 respirators are not advisable for use by some individuals and under certain circumstances:

Persons with perforated ear drums.
Those suffering from obstructive or restrictive airway diseases where the lung function is compromised.
Patients with a history of recent heart attack and other symptomatic heart diseases should not use N95 respirators.
Those who have neurological conditions resulting in loss of consciousness, fits and disorientation (both physical and emotional) are cautioned against using the N95 respirators as death from suffocation may occur.
Same holds true for those using medications which affect judgment or cause alterations in the consciousness or awareness.
Those who suffer from claustrophobia, the fear of narrow, closed spaces, should seek medical assistance if they have to wear the N95 respirators.

Who Cannot Wear N95 Masks/Respirators?

The N95 respirators are effective only if they are air tight or tight fit. Hence those with distorted facial features due to bony and soft tissue deformities will not be able to wear the respirator. Those who have facial hair and side burns also will not get a tight fit with the N95 respirator.

What are the Limitations of the N95 Masks/Respirators?

The N95 respirator cannot be used if there is oil or toxic substances in the atmosphere
The N95 respirators do not allow much oxygen inside; hence persons with lung diseases cannot use them.
The N95 respirator should also not be worn if the atmospheric oxygen content is less than 19.5%.
Even normal adults may find it difficult to use the N95 respirators for long periods of time because of the difficulty in breathing.
Because of the difficulty in breathing and achieving a tight fit, the N95 respirator is not advisable for young children, according to the FDA’s report on the masks and respirators.

The definite role of N95 masks and respirators in preventing the spread of nH1N1 flu is not defined positively for want of sufficient number of studies. Still, if used correctly and consistently, the N95 respirator is definitely of benefit when exposed to a case of swine flu.

Related Articles

CDC: Emergency Use Authorization of N95 Respirators.

Disclaimer

The information given in this article is for educational purpose only so that patients are aware of the options available. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your doctor. If you do so, the author or suite101 will not be responsible for any consequences. The images provided are for illustration purpose only.

The copyright of the article FAQ on the N95 Respirator Uses and Limitations in General Medicine is owned by Hanish Babu. Permission to republish FAQ on the N95 Respirator Uses and Limitations in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

What are the Limitations of N95 Masks/Respirators?