Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) for Users
Head Cover/Hood PAPR Components Breathing Tube Blower / Filtration Unit (w/airflow Indicator) Head Cover Head Cover Battery Charger
Intended Use Motor blower draws contaminated air through a high efficiency particle (HEPA) filter and blows filtered air up into head covering When properly used, helps reduce respiratory exposure to airborne particles such as dust, mist, and biological aerosols. In lieu of N-95 mask, use for patients with suspected or proven TB. PAPR with head cover reduces exposure by factor of 25. HEPA filters do not reduce exposure to gases or vapors Do not use in oxygen deficient environments
Obtaining PAPRs and PAPR Head Covers When patients are placed in Strict Isolation or Airborne Precautions for TB or R/O TB, PAPRs may be ordered from the Equipment Pool (EP) at 4-5811. For departments who ordered PAPRs from the EP, used PAPRs will be replaced each day by the equipment pool. They are responsible to recharge the PAPR units and to check the airflow indicators. Additional PAPRs are stored, supplied, and maintained by the Emergency (ED), MICU, Respiratory Therapy (RT), and ambulatory clinics where TB patients may present.
Oracle Order numbers for PAPR Hoods 152150, HOOD COVER AIRMATE PAPR REGULAR 152151, HOOD COVER PAPR LARGE WHITE
Before Use To ensure the safest and most effective use of the PAPR, there are a few steps you should take before use. Check the breathing tube Check that the battery operates and that there is airflow Check the head cover for integrity (i.e., no holes, cracks)
Before Use: Breathing Tube Inspect the breathing tube and body of the blower / filtration unit for punctures, cracks or general wear. Insert the breathing tube (male end with pin) into the blower / filtration unit and twist clockwise to lock in place. Note: The airflow will be checked each day by the EP using an airflow indicator.
Before Use: Check Flow Hold the free end of the breathing tube up by grasping the slotted connector and covering the slots of the connector with thumb and forefinger. Drop the black, bullet-shaped airflow indicator (pointed end first) into the slotted connector Switch the filter unit on. Hold the tube so that it is vertical and at eye level. If the lower band on the indicator rises above the slotted connector edge, airflow is sufficient. If not, check the breathing tube, battery and filter. Note: If your PAPR comes from the Equipment Pool (EP), they check the airflow each day before PAPR units are released to the floors. If you have any question as to whether or not the PAPR has the correct airflow, contact the EP for PAPR unit replacement.
Before Use: Head Cover Inspect the head cover for damage. Push the slotted end of the breathing tube into the connector in the rear of the head cover until it snaps into place. Pull the head cover over your head and adjust it so the headband wraps around your head. Pull the elasticized edge of the faceseal under your chin. Secure the unit and belt to your waist. To use, turn on the power switch on the battery pack. Note: Head cover cannot be worn with facial hair that interferes with the seal to the face.
Cleaning Wipe the outside surfaces of the PAPR system with Sanimaster 4 or SaniCloth. Do not clean with organic solvents. Do not soak the blower unit or battery in cleaning solutions. Hoods may be shared between healthcare workers. Disinfect the inside and then the outside of the PAPR hood with Sanimaster 4 or SaniCloth. Individuals who failed fit testing or who cannot be fit tested for the disposable N95 respirator due to facial hair or other health reasons, may be issued their own PAPR hoods by their departments. The hoods should be labeled with the individuals name written on a piece of tape and placed on the PAPR hood and after disinfecting, stored in their locker so that it is available at work when needed.
Documentation of Education Complete the training certificate located on the isolation cart to document your review of the PAPR training material and your understanding of how to wear the PAPRs. Submit this certificate to your supervisor for storage in your departmental personnel file. Additional copies of training materials and certificates are available on the Infection Prevention and Control Department website: http://ozone.ohsu.edu/healthsystem/dept/infection/
Problem Smell or taste contaminants, irritation during use Blower does not run when switch depressed Low airflow Possible Causes Misuse, improper assembly, or malfunction of equipment Battery is discharged Faulty power switch Faulty motor Battery needs charging Filter is loaded PAPR blower malfunction Breathing tube restricted. Corrective Action Leave work area immediately and contact supervisor. Do not use PAPR until corrected. Recharge or replace battery Replace motor blower Replace motor blower Switch to fully charged battery Replace filter Switch to a different blower unit Remove restriction
PAPR Questions?? Questions regarding PAPRs should be addressed to the Environmental Health and Radiation Safety Department at 4-7795.