CLINIC I A N TAS K F O R CE
MASK MATTERS:
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR CONSUMERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Written by: LESLIE JACKSON, OTR/L, OTD, ATP, CEASIII, AND PENNY J. POWERS PT, MS, ATP
INTRODUCTION With the increasing prevalence of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised important measures to help control the spread of the virus, including frequent hand washing, social distancing and facial masks (CDC, July 16, 2020). Subsequently, issues have emerged during this public health emergency across rehabilitation settings for pediatric and adult populations with special needs. Consumers with special needs may have motor challenges, respiratory issues, speech and hearing deficits, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or sensory concerns, such as tactile sensitivity, that may impact their ability to apply or tolerate face masks. Certain populations are particularly vulnerable at times during emergencies. Specifically, the deaf community and individuals with hearing loss encounter challenges during health crises and emergencies, largely due to communication concerns (Engelman, Ivey, Tseng, Dahrouge, Brune, & Neuhauser, 2013). Morris (2020) stated that wearing face coverings can be challenging for individuals with autism who are hypersensitive or resistant to touch, as well as for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), claustrophobia and other related mental health conditions. In response to these challenges, clinicians across the health care continuum are developing and applying creative strategies to assist consumers. The aim of this article is to highlight how clinicians are applying creative solutions to assist Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) consumers with wearing masks.
CDC GUIDELINES The CDC’s published guidelines advise individuals wear cloth face coverings in public settings to help prevent the spread of the virus, particularly when social distancing is difficult to maintain (CDC, 2020). However, the CDC recognizes special circumstances exist and suggests cloth face coverings should not be worn by children under 2 years of age nor by anyone who has difficulty breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to
FIGURE 1 A service provider wears his face shield and disposable mask as a young lady wears a sports-themed face mask.
remove the mask without assistance. Additionally, some facilities are requiring face shields or goggles as an additional layer of protection. The CDC has advised face shields should not be substituted for face coverings nor should they be used during everyday activities (CDC, 2020). Figure 1 depicts a face shield and disposable face masks worn by a CRT supplier while working with a young consumer.
MASK VARIATIONS Personal protective equipment (PPE) varies in type and material construction. Masks may be secured by tying straps, looping elastic straps over the ears, or adjusting the ear loops or nosepiece. However, health care systems or facilities often determine their specific PPE requirements for the safe and effective delivery of rehabilitation, health care services and interventions. For example, some health care facilities have opted for patrons to wear disposable face coverings, rather than face masks constructed of cloth materials.
CREATIVE SOLUTIONS Clinicians are developing and utilizing creative solutions to assist consumers with special needs. Face masks with clear plastic inserts can permit lip-reading, support communication and convey positive facial expressions to reduce feelings of anxiety. The ClearMask™ Is a surgical mask with a transparent insert to permit full-face visibility, approved by the Food and Drug Administration
FIGURE 2
A mask with a clear insert permits others to lip-read and see facial expressions
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DIRECTIONS 2020.5
