Examination of Physiological Changes Seen In Workers Using Breathing Masks During COVID-19 pandemic

There are very few studies in the literature evaluating the effects of mask use on physiological parameters.

The aim of this study is to examine physiological changes due to use of masks in healthcare workers who use respiratory masks for long hours in the emergency room during the pandemic process.

Cross-sectional and prospective study was carried out with healthcare professionals with FFP2 type valve mask.The transcutaneous oxygen saturation, pulse and respiratory rate of the participants were measured before wearing the respirator mask, and at 30 and 60 minutes after wearing the mask.

SPO2 values of the participants decreased gradually at 0th,30th and 60th minutes, and respiratory rate increased gradually at 0th, 30th and 60thminutes.The statistically significant difference arises from the 0 and 60 minutes values. Higher SPO2 values were found at 0 and 30 minutes in non-smokers.SPO2 value gradually decreased in nonsmokers at 0, 30 and 60 minutes,but no significant decrease was observed in nonsmokers. Pulse rate was found to be higher at 60th minute compared to 0th minute in non-smokers. No significant difference was found between smokers and non-smokers. Respiratory rate gradually increased in smokers at 0th, 30th and 60th minutes.SPO2 values were found to be lower at 60th minute compared to 0th minute in both women and men. There was no significant difference in pulse rates. Respiratory rate was found to be higher at 60th minute in men than at 0th minute

It is recommended to follow the physiological parameters and to regulate the working conditions when necessary.