I was recently called to fit test for the new Alpha Solway mask at Edinburgh Dental Institute for FFP3 mask. Having fit tested for four different masks both in practice and hospital I was a bit reluctant to do this one. Thank fully I was given an appointment on a day without clinical commitments and I turned up to the appointment promptly at the given time.
I was called into the testing facility by a courteous staff member and I was surprised to see the Quantitative testing initiative by NHS Lothian. All my previous tests were qualitative where I had to decide whether the mask is a good fit based on my feedback of tasting the aerosol. I am not sure how the qualitative test and quantitative tests compare with each other but obviously quantitative test results are more valid and objective.
The picture below shows the connections to test subject and readings taken as the test progresses.
I cannot thank NHS Lothian enough for this great testing facility. It is state of the art and gives the user the reassurance that the fit test is reliable. Another advantage is the fact that you do not have to deal with the bitter tasting spray. It gives the user much needed reassurance.
I hope all health boards roll out this testing facility, which should have been made available months ago but can fully understand the challenges in procurement and set up. Let us not forget staff training is also challenging in these difficult times.
Please check with your health boards whether they are offering quantitative testing.