A P2 is a respirator equipped with a filter that reduces the wearer’s respiratory exposure to particulates, gases, and vapors in Australia. All P2 masks are made up of P2 types of respirators. Personal respiratory protection respirators (P2) are suited for use in healthcare facilities as part of the protective gear in Australia. P2 masks in Australia are also acceptable as part of the PPE necessary for all health care professionals in Australia involved in aerosol-generating operations when a patient is proven or suspected to have a disease that can be spread by droplet or airborne route.
Fit Testing
Putting on a P2 requires performing a fit check each time to ensure that its respirator is fitted correctly, a good seal is established over the nose and mouth bridge, and the respirator does not gape with one’s face. Fit testing is the minimum criterion for healthcare workers utilizing P2. No clinical action should be carried out until a good fit is found.
Healthcare personnel must use protective equipment (PPE) correctly, including proper fitting and disposal of PPE.
How To Correctly Put On And Take Off Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The following are the measures you should take to ensure that you are safe
- Maintain hygienic habits when handling food and drink.
- The outer borders should be held in place as the edges and straps are separated to ensure proper fit.
- Form a modest curve on the nose by gently bending it.
- Position the P2 under the chin with the nosepiece up after separating the headbands.
- Headbands should be pulled high over the head so that they lay on the back of your head and are positioned just below your ears on the bottom.
- Use your fingertips to mold and shape the mask on the nose to guarantee a suitable fit around the face, cheeks, and nose bridge.
- Exhale sharply to ensure a good seal. There is no leakage if the P2 has positive pressure. If leaks occur, the straps should be repositioned and tightened.
- Inhale deeply to check for a bad seal. In the absence of a leak, the P2 will cling to the face.
- Several companies provide P2 masks in Australia. Detailed information regarding respirator fit testing can be found in the product information provided by the manufacturer.
If the seal is not tight enough, healthcare personnel should not continue with patient practice and contact their supervisor.
Keep the mask in proper shape and shield the wearer from flying debris. After a successful fit check, the P2’s fit mustn’t be compromised.
Don’t
- When removed, you should not wear the mask again. Always wear a new one.
Do
- Whenever the P2 get wet, replace it with a dry one. After touching or disposing of a used P2, wash your hands before returning to the patient’s room or care area.
- Fit testing seems to be a tried-and-true way of determining if a particular brand, model, and dimension of respirator fit a specific person’s face comfortably.
- A healthcare worker’s safety can be jeopardized if their protective gear doesn’t fit properly. Before using the P2 for the first time, it is essential to conduct a fit test.
- During fit testing, healthcare personnel can confirm that they are appropriately trained in the usage of the P2 or are informed of how to do a fit check.
