Does combined usage of FFP2 and surgical mask against SARS‑CoV‑2 affect SpO2 values and pulse rates of dental health‑care workers?

Abstract

Background and Aim: Combined use of surgical mask with filtering facepiece (FFP) 2 masks has been popular among the health‑care workers. However, the effect of this preference on the vital values of individuals stays as a challenge among the professionals. The present study aimed to assess the effect of FFP2 mask versus combined use of it with surgical mask on the SpO₂ values and pulse rates of individuals. Patients and Methods: This study was conducted on 20 health‑care workers. The pulse rates and SpO₂ values were evaluated by pulse oximeter placed in the index fingers of the participants. The participants were divided into two groups: those using the FFP2 mask and those using FFP2–surgical mask combination. Individuals wearing FFP2 mask were examined for a period of 60 min and the same examination was repeated for another period of 60 min in those using combination of FFP2 with surgical mask. The values were measured at the beginning and at 15, 30, 45, and 60 min intervals, respectively. The examinations were conducted in the rest position to obtain standardization.

Results: The observed data showed no statistical difference at all periods in either SpO₂ values or pulse rates between FFP2 and FFP2–surgical mask combined groups. The SpO₂ values reduced from the initial time to 15 min in the FFP2–surgical mask group. Also, in the FFP2–SM group, statistically significant increase in values was observed between 15 and 45 min and 15 and 60 min. Another increase in SpO₂ value was found in the observations made between made 30 and 45 min in the same group (P < 0.05). The pulse rates of the individuals showed no statistical difference in both the groups and at all experimental periods (P > 0.05).

Conclusion: According to the present study, wearing only the FFP2 mask or FFP2–surgical mask combination seems not to cause any effect on the SpO₂ values and pulse rates of the participants.