Potential advantages of PAPR | Potential disadvantages of PAPR |
---|---|
Higher protection factors and less breakthrough events (APF ≥ 25), compared to N95 respirators | Higher costs and limited availability |
Do not require fit testing and can be used by HCWs who cannot be successfully fit tested with N95/N99 respirators or with facial hair | More difficult and time-consuming to don and doff, with a potential increased risk of self-contamination while doffing |
Reusable, and can reduce the burden on respirator availability | Communication difficulties due to tight seal and ventilator noise |
More comfortable for prolonged use | Requires complex decontamination procedures for reuse |
Full facial and head cover (depending on model) | Depending on model, requires supply of disposable components, e.g. filters, hoses |
Can be difficult to use in combination with operating microscopes |