COVID-19: Envo N95 mask

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Specializes in IMCU.

Not sure if this is the right thread or not, but has anyone tried/ is currently using an Envo N95? I have seen a few nurses with them and like the idea of an easy to clean (relatively) reusable N95 with a fresh filter for each shift. Does anyone know how effective these are? I’m on an IMCU turned COVID unit so effectiveness is a big deal. Our hospital provides duckbill N95s. Each one is reused 5 times before being thrown away (used by same person, “cleaned” via UV or some such). 

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Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).

At $70-$90 I haven't invested in one yet. Many of the doctors and staff at my facility are using them though and the general consensus is they are worth the money!

Hppy

 

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Specializes in OR.

Absolutely get the money together to buy one of those masks. I bought one last Summer, after seeing them in use by surgical assistants in the OR. In the OR we still have to put another mask OVER them because the vent flap allows our exhaled air to blow out, unfiltered.

The MAIN thing I like about the mask is that they are so comfortable. The fitting around the face is similar to an ambu bag mask, form fits to all kinds of face shapes. The form fitting + soft silicone material provides a MUCH better seal than any other N 95 mask I've worn. The next BEST thing about the mask is the frame that holds the filter material away from your face. Your face feels DRY all day, because the exhaled moist air isn't precipitating the moisture on the barrier type masks that are in constant contact with your face.

The only thing I don't like about them is their weird straps with ear pieces. The ear pieces are too uncomfortable to wear longer than an hour or two. I just tied them together, because I haven't decided if I want to just cut them off entirely.

Pro tip: Take time to get the mask comfortable on face, fitting the straps, etc. at the beginning of your shift and you will have longer filter use. The more fiddling with it, adjusting on your face, taking it on & off, the more wear and tear on the filter in the filter holder. Once the filter won't seat properly in the frame, it's time to throw it out and get a new filter. The mask comes with 5 filters and a container to store the mask. Buy an extra 25 filters when you buy the mask to save on shipping.

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Specializes in ACNP-BC, Adult Critical Care, Cardiology.

Thanks for this thread.  We don't have a shortage of N95 masks at work but now thinking this Envo N95 mask would be good to have.

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Specializes in IMCU.

@11blade thanks for the reply! That was very helpful.

I would really love to hear from others who are using them or see them in use on their units/ in their hospitals. How long does each filter last if the mask is worn for a full 12-hour shift? Also, I know you can get a cover for the filter that, as I understand, also solves the issues with the vent hole. Thoughts? Opinions? Thanks!

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On their website I saw where you can purchase a bag of 5 (or more) plugs, I guess for the vent hole.  This mask set looks very good and I am considering purchasing one for myself and my high risk family members.  Thanks for this thread!

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Specializes in School nursing.

So many EMTs that regularly working COVID testing sites use these and LOVE them. They cannot say enough good things about them. I've been told the fit is great and way more comfortable. The only downside they sited was they can get sweaty while working a long outside testing site shift. 

I'm a school nurse running COVID testing weekly on site for staff and students and just got my school to let me order one to try. It will probably be at least 2-3 weeks before I see it, but I'm excited (though also feeling odd typing that) to try it. 

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Specializes in I'm an educator & son of an RN.

My mom (an RN) wears an Envo mask and I have two in my house that I use occasionally. The Envo mask is pretty popular among dentists as well - my dental hygienist was wearing one when I went in last.

I couldn't find much information on the Envo mask besides the official corporate website, so I started this editable page, which I hope is helpful for anyone doing research on the envo:

https://encycla.com/Envo_mask

If you have tips / tricks / etc, please feel free to click "edit" and add to the page. I am hoping to have time to add information on improving fit test pass rates - I have noticed occasional failures when doing the "head side to side" exercise in qualitative fit tests.

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Specializes in A variety.
On 1/14/2021 at 7:59 PM, CamperNurse said:

Not sure if this is the right thread or not, but has anyone tried/ is currently using an Envo N95? I have seen a few nurses with them and like the idea of an easy to clean (relatively) reusable N95 with a fresh filter for each shift. Does anyone know how effective these are? I’m on an IMCU turned COVID unit so effectiveness is a big deal. Our hospital provides duckbill N95s. Each one is reused 5 times before being thrown away (used by same person, “cleaned” via UV or some such). 

That would be really nice.  I wore the  gas mask looking n100 which was better for fresh air but worse for talking.  Reusing masks after a while for me, caused irritation and a desire to cough.  We all know how awkward it is to cough anymore.  

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Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).
9 hours ago, jive turkey said:

  We all know how awkward it is to cough anymore.  

So True but it can sure clear up a checkout line at Walmart!

 

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Specializes in School nursing.

Update from me: I have one I got last year and use it and LOVE it. 

But it harder to be heard through it - I wear it when COVID testing and when I am with student/staff with COVID or suspected COVID. I have surgical masks and KN95s for my more typical daily activities. 

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