Optimizing N95 Supply: COVID-19 Checklist

This checklist helps healthcare facilities manage and conserve N95 respirators during COVID-19. It organizes actions by surge capacity: conventional, contingency, and crisis. Guidance covers engineering controls (AIIRs, barriers, ventilation), administrative controls (screening, cohorting patients and HCP, telemedicine, visitor restrictions), and PPE strategies (surgical N95s, alternatives like elastomeric or PAPRs, extended use and limited re-use, and fit testing). It also includes prioritization when supplies are low, use of suitable international standards, and last-resort measures. Use it to train staff and standardize decision-making on respirator allocation and safety.