Personal protective equipment (PPE) related adverse skin reactions among healthcare professionals at the main COVID-19 isolation centre in Barbados

ABSTRACT

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of PPE-related adverse skin reactions among HCWs working at Harrison's Point, the main COVID-19 isolation centre in Barbados. Design and Methods: A cross-sectional web-based online survey among HCWs was carried out from 1 April 2021 to 21 June 2021. The questionnaire recorded self-reported demographic information, details of PPE use, and adverse skin reactions including severity and duration of onset of symptoms. Result(s) The majority of the respondents were females (71.2%) and the nurses represented the largest group (45.2%) of HCWs. Most of the respondents used PPE for consecutive days (77.9%), 1-6 hours/day (59.2%), and more than a year (62.5%). More than 45% (n = 47) of participants experienced adverse skin reactions from the use of PPE. The adverse skin reactions were mostly observed in the cheeks (40.4%) and nose bridges (35.6%). Females had more reactions than their male counterparts (p = 0.003). The use of N95 masks and a combination of surgical and N95 masks at no discernable consistency produced adverse effects predominantly in the ears (60%) and cheeks (56.4%) respectively. Only 40.4% of study respondents reported that they attended PPE fit testing. Conclusion(s) The PPE-related skin reactions were common among HCWs which mainly occurred due to prolonged and inappropriate use. Cheeks and nasal bridges were the most affected areas and female HCWs were more susceptible to adverse effects than males. Preventive measures inclusive of appropriate training of HCWs on the use of PPE are recommended to minimize these adverse events.