Identifying leadership practices to support the uptake of reusable elastomeric half mask respirators in health delivery settings

An increase in reusable Elastomeric Half Mask Respirators (EHMRs) among healthcare personnel has been documented during pandemic emergencies; however, research has not detailed leadership practices to support their use. Forty-three organizations implemented EHMRs received from the United States fede...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Healthcare management forum 2024-07, Vol.37 (4), p.230-236
Main Authors: Haas, Emily J., Furek, Alexa, Greenawald, Lee A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
COVID-19 - prevention & control
Equipment Reuse
Health Personnel
Humans
Leadership
Masks
Organizational Culture
Respiratory Protective Devices
United States
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Summary:An increase in reusable Elastomeric Half Mask Respirators (EHMRs) among healthcare personnel has been documented during pandemic emergencies; however, research has not detailed leadership practices to support their use. Forty-three organizations implemented EHMRs received from the United States federal government which prompted interviews with 73 individuals who managed respirator distribution and fit testing between October 2021 and November 2022. Interview data was qualitatively analyzed. Themes around organizational culture and leadership practices emerged when discussing how elastomeric half mask respirators were integrated into health delivery settings including communication and outreach methods to aid worker support. Example included on-line and hands-on training, peer support, leadership support, and a culture that supports respirator use. To support a shift to reusable respiratory protection being procured and implemented, organizational- and individual-level perspectives are needed. Employee engagement, respirator champions, and updated verbal and written communication mechanisms are important takeaways for leaders to consider during any routine or emergency scenario.
ISSN:0840-4704
2352-3883
DOI:10.1177/08404704241226698