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Under-mask beard cover (Singh Thattha technique) for donning respirator masks in COVID-19 patient care

  • R. Singh
    ,
  • H.S. Safri
    ,
  • S. Singh
    ,
  • B.S. Ubhi
    ,
  • G. Singh
    ,
  • G.S. Alg
  • Sikh Doctors & Dentists Association
    ,
  • British Sikh Dental Association
    ,
  • British Sikh Doctors Organisation
Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Abstract

Tight-fitting filtering facepiece (FFP3) face masks are essential respiratory protective equipment during aerosol-generating procedures in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) environment, and require a fit test to assess mask–face seal competency. Facial hair is considered to be an impediment for achieving a competent seal. We describe an under-mask beard cover called the Singh Thattha technique, which obtained a pass rate of 25/27 (92.6%) by qualitative and 5/5 (100%) by quantitative fit test in full-bearded individuals. Sturdier versions of FFP3 were more effective. For individuals for whom shaving is not possible, the Singh Thattha technique could offer an effective solution to safely don respirator masks.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 782-785

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Journal of Hospital Infection (Volume 106, Issue 4)

Publication milestones

  • Accepted/In press - 28/09/2020
  • Published - 03/10/2020

Publication status

Published - 03/10/2020

ISSN

0195-6701

External Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/624737
  • Scopus: 85096166798