A new simple method of handmade face shield using A4-size OHP sheet, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Brief Explanation

Due to the outbreak of COVID‐19, many healthcare providers face the problem of lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) including face shields. , , However, we need to protect ourselves using standard PPE and continue to perform necessary endoscopic procedures. Skamnelos et al. reported a method to handmake face shields by attaching a sponge and an elastic band to an A4‐size OHP transparent sheet. Yet, preparing such materials in large numbers can be difficult. To solve this problem, we present an alternate, easy method to make face shields with low‐cost materials along with the A4‐size OHP transparent sheet. Cut 3.2 mm‐diameter insulated wire to about 44 cm in length, and bend 12–16 cm from each end to make M‐shapes as shown (Fig. 1). The M‐shaped parts hold the temples of the face so that the frame is fixed at the proper position. Using a pierce punch, create six holes 2, 5, and 8 cm away from both edges of the longer side of the A4‐size OHP transparent sheet. Pull the frame through those holes to complete the face shield. The entire process takes less than 3 min. The shape of the frame is adjustable for each user and fits over glasses. Gaps between the face shield and the forehead can be covered by wearing a medical cap on the head to cover the frame. The frame costs about 100 Japanese yen and the transparent sheet costs about 20 Japanese yen per sheet. If the patient has a likelihood of COVID infection, full PPE should be worn. In other cases, we can use handmade face shields and save regular face shields for critical cases. Here, we present a low‐cost and easy way to make a face shield with a guide on how to put on and safely remove it (Video S1).

Figure 1

(A) Bend the wire 12–16 cm from both ends to create two M shapes (B) Punch holes 2, 5 and 8 cm away from both edges of OHP sheet then pull the wire through them (C) Put on a medical cap so that there is no gap between the forehead and the face shield.

Authors declare no conflicts of interest for this article.

FUNDING INFORMATION

None.

Video S1 Demonstration of easy, low‐cost method to make a face shield for endoscopic usage with an accurate putting on/safe removing order.

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