Just-in-time Elastomeric Training and Fit Testing (JET FIT)

The demand for disposable respiratory protective devices needed to protect health care personnel may exceed supply during large outbreaks of respiratory infectious diseases. Concerns occurred over the global shortages of respiratory protective devices during the novel coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A reusable alternative to N95® respirators for which health care personnel can be rapidly assessed for fit (fit testing) and trained for use is needed. Elastomeric half-mask respirators (EHMRs), which provide the same level of respiratory protection as N95® respirators, are one alternative. These reusable respirators are used in construction and manufacturing, but not widely used in health care because of uncertainty about disinfection methods and upfront costs. The goal of this demonstration study was to test the feasibility of rapidly training and fit testing health care workers to EHMRs. The study was a randomized clinical trial.