Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
Effects of Surgical Masks on Cardiopulmonary Function in Healthy Subjects
Published on: February 12, 2021
Factors influencing respirator use at work in respiratory patients
J Fukakusa1, J Rosenblat, B Jang
1Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Canada.
Background:
When engineering controls such as ventilation are not sufficient to prevent hazardous exposures in workplaces, respiratory protective devices (RPDs) may be provided to decrease workers' exposures. Often, workers do not use RPDs consistently when required.
Aims:
Our goal was to determine important factors associated with RPD usage in workers with respiratory disease exposed to airborne hazards at work.
Methods:
One hundred and twenty-nine respiratory clinic patients in jobs with self-identified hazardous airborne substances completed a questionnaire and their clinic files were reviewed. Statistical analysis using chi-squared test and binary logistical regression was done to identify associations with RPD usage.
Results:
Forty-one per cent reported always wearing RPDs whenever a hazard was present; 33% never wore RPD. Compliance was highest among healthcare workers (72%) and lowest among workers in food and service industries (13 and 22%, respectively), P < 0.01. The compliance of co-workers, conveniently located RPDs, safety training discussing the use of RPDs, fit testing available at the workplace and age were positively associated with compliance (P < 0.05). Experiencing symptoms of shortness of breath and nasal stuffiness were negatively associated with compliance (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
Addressing company factors and workers' symptoms apparently influencing compliance may optimize RPD usage.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
01:24Factors Affecting Respiration
01:20Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
01:30Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
01:23Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD,...
01:19Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...