Consequences of FFP3 mask usage on venous blood gases

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: To investigate the effect of FFP3 mask usage on venous blood gases (VBG) and some subjective symptoms METHODS: VBG analyses and subjective symptom questionary were obtained from 15 healthcare proffesionals before and after 4-h FFP3 mask usage. RESULTS: Wearing an FFP3 mask for 4 hours did not change any venous blood gas parameters between pre- and post-values, statistically. According to an 8-symptom questionary, only nausea did not show any significance. Headache, lightheadedness, visual difficulties, shortness of breath, palpitation, confusion, and difficult communication showed statistically significant difference between pre and post values. CONCLUSION: Four-hour use of FFP3 mask did not cause any significant VBG change. Although the participants complained about some subjective symptoms, this study indicated that long-term use of FFP3 mask did not cause any significant discomforts, and it was well tolerated.