COVID-19 감염병 대응 의료진의 개인보호구 개선사항 분석 및 동작 프로토콜 개발: 동작적합성과 쾌적성을 중심으로

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to improve the comfort of COVID-19 encapsulated personal protective equipment (PPE) and develop a test protocol to evaluate the mobility characteristics and performance of the PPE. We interviewed 16 healthcare workers (2 males and 14 females; 30.6 ± 6.8 y in age) who had experience in COVID-19 screening and testing stations or patient facilities in hospitals (Seoul and Daegu). A 43-question questionnaire was used in all interviews. The interviews showed that healthcare workers were concerned about the following: the seams around the coverall crotch were easily torn; the hoods of the coveralls did not fit their heads; the sleeves were too long or short; the powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) was heavy, bulky and noisy; the N95 masks induced face pressure and skin irritation; the goggles (or face shields) often fogged up; double or triple-layered rubber gloves caused tactile insensitivity; the strings of disposable shoe covers were too long. We examined their postures and tasks as well. Based on the interviews, we developed a new set of mobility and performance test protocols, which consisted of a postural test (18 postures), a simulated performance test (12 tasks), and visibility/language delivery/tactile sensitivity tests. The mobility test protocols can be included in the national guidelines to reduce motion discomfort and improve the performance of COVID-19 healthcare workers who have to wear encapsulated personal protective equipment.