key: cord-0908039-5wwwrvgx
authors: Sjaus, A.; d’Entremont, M.
title: Measurement of airborne particle exposure during simulated tracheal intubation using various proposed aerosol containment devices during the COVID‐19 pandemic
date: 2020-08-01
journal: Anaesthesia
DOI: 10.1111/anae.15227
sha: 553542d8dd965ff993ecc3271782dc55c02dd906
doc_id: 908039
cord_uid: 5wwwrvgx

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Measurement of airborne particle exposure during simulated tracheal intubation using various proposed aerosol containment devices during the COVID-19 pandemic

We read with great interest the article by Simpson et al. [1] .

We are grateful to the authors for providing the first scientific evaluation on the impact of improvised barrier 'devices' on dispersion of exhaled aerosols. As the authors point out, with the exception of the sealed box with suction, all were found to cause no significant decrease in ambient aerosol particles. In the case of the 'aerosol box', rather worryingly, increases in particle counts were recorded.

These findings are highly concerning given the seemingly widespread use of such devices during aerosolgenerating procedures in patients with COVID-19. As we reconcile the duty to care for patients in the face of this highly transmissible and potentially deadly disease, the requirement for healthcare worker protection is an issue of respecting basic human rights as much as their psychological need to reduce anxiety in a highly stressful environment. However human and understandable the fear may be, we cannot forget that our work is first based on science. We can, and should, turn to science for potential solutions.

Based on their findings, we heartily support the decision by Simpson et al. to remove passive barriers from their intubation protocols. We do, however, feel compelled to comment on several aspects of the study. Lastly, the most interesting result from the problemsolving perspective is related to the performance of the sealed box with suction. By virtue of its construction, the box precluded airway management but performed remarkably well in reducing aerosol egress.

To find solutions that truly improve safety, we need sound engineering solutions that are acceptable to users and patients and validated through rigorous testing protocols rooted in scientific principles. These solutions

Measurement of airborne particle exposure during simulated tracheal intubation using various proposed aerosol containment devices during the COVID-19 pandemic

Epub 9 July

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