Paramedics asked to keep used masks
SYDNEY — Paramedics across the province are being asked to keep used bag valve masks because there could be shortage of the respiratory medical equipment in the near future.
The Cape Breton Post has obtained a copy of an equipment advisory email by Emergency Health Services system support requesting paramedics no longer throw bag valve masks out and instructing how to prepare them for recycling.
Sent on Thursday at 4:48 p.m., the advisory stated the current supplier was unable to fill any orders until possibly August and they were looking for an alternate source.
“The masks will not be immediately released back into the field. We will continue researching and testing to determine the safest practice and operational guidelines,” the email reads.
EHA also said it is currently working with specialists and scientists at the QEII Health Sciences Centre to determine if it is possible to safely recondition and sanitize bag valve masks.
Bag valve masks are used to help a patient who isn’t breathing or is having trouble breathing. Usually they are treated as a single-use item and thrown away.
One Cape Breton paramedic, who spoke to the Cape Breton Post on the condition of anonymity, said they’ve never seen the company ask to reuse equipment like this.
“I think the company should have anticipated this and now they are playing catch-up. Now they are attempting to reuse equipment that is disposable,” said the paramedic who’s worked in the field for many years.
“My concern is that it’s a vital piece of equipment. If we run out, it’s going to affect how we treat patients.”
In a written statement to the Cape Breton Post on Sunday, EHS confirmed the request to return used bag valve masks is a precautionary measure.
“Maintaining appropriate levels of equipment at all times is a top priority for EHS operations. While we are confident in the current supply of bag valve masks, our supply and logistics teams are constantly evaluating ways to determine equipment supply needs and the current and predicted availability of those supplies,” wrote EHS spokesman Remo Zaccagna.
“Our entire EHS operations team is working hard with our health-care partners to ensure the health and safety of patients, employees and the general public as we move through this unprecedented situation.”