Full-face snorkel/scuba masks can potentially serve as personal-protective equipment alternatives for healthcare providers. One challenge is to provide a HEPA filter connection to filter the inhaled air. This file is an adapter to connect a full-face snorkel mask (Vaincre 180° Full Face Snorkel Mask), available on consumer retail websites. The adapter permits connection to standard medical ventilation tubing connections. We inserted an HME filter from anesthesia ventilation circuits to the mask.
We are conducting pilot testing for fit-testing/leak tests. The device is currently not approved for use at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Procedures for cleaning and sterilization of the devices are under development.
We are preparing to have access to this and other devices for PPE should the need arise.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The device created as part of this publication should NOT be used as a replacement for conventional and approved Personal Protective Equipment (“PPE”). The device has not been industry-tested nor has it been NIOSH approved. The publication of this article shall not constitute or be deemed to constitute any representation by the authors, their affiliates, and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and is intended for educational purposes only. The decision to use this device is solely your own.
We emphasize that this device has not been assessed for its comparative efficacy to prevent nosocomial infection in health care workers compared with the standard-of-care, the N-95 mask. We conducted only a limited proof-of-concept fit testing in a non-clinical environment to assess the device for its effect on work-of-breathing, CO2 retention by transcutaneous measurement, and continuous pulse oximetry. We found no increase in work-of breathing, CO2 retention, or hypoxemia in the test.
THE AUTHORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, AND THE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF PHILADELPHIA DISCLAIM ANY WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING THOSE OF QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR INFRINGEMENT, AND WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSSES OR DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THE DEVICE DESCRIBED HEREIN.
USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
