Implementing an automated system for mask fit certification in medical education

One of the wake-up calls from the COVID-19 pandemic was the enforcement of adequately fitted face masks and respirators. Mask fit training, which was seen operational before the pandemic, gained significant attention post-pandemic. The Ministry of Health (MOH), Singapore, emphasised the training for not just the healthcare professionals but also for the healthcare students, to safeguard their safety and to enhance their confidence.

The medical school had to ensure that students were properly fitted and maintain the records of the mask brands and sizes. Each student indicates the details on a sticker which would be pasted on the matriculation card. The mask fit-test records will be sent to the respective Healthcare Instituions (HCIs), where the students will be attached for their clinical postings. Despite manual efforts to track and record accurately the mask sizes and models, it proved laborious and demanded considerable time. Additionally, the manual procedures surfaced inconsistencies and inaccurate data entries caused by erroneous human judgements.

An automated system that could generate the records was devised with the aim of streamlining the certification process without any compromise to accuracy and data privacy. Following the fit test, trainers and students recorded the mask details in the system. The process was automated, allowing students to receive an email with mask details indicated for their easy reference, and enabled easy retrieval of certificates.

Clinical Procedures Team worked with the digital learning team to develop the automated system using the Agile Development Framework. It aided in embracing and adapting the changing requirements and incorporated feedback through continuous iteration.¹ Each student who successfully fit-tested received a certificate, while those who failed received a reminder email prompting them to schedule a re-test after a certain period and inform them to seek alternatives. This was useful to HCIs as this validation confirms whether students should be permitted or not to deal with infectious cases. This also eliminates the possibility of students attending such cases and jeopardising their safety due to assumed or false mask information.

The paradigm-shifter proved invaluable as it provided the medical students with a convenient reference point, mask fit certificates accessible anytime and anywhere. It offers a proof of competence in mask application, especially for overseas clinical postings. When the system was implemented, communication between HCIs and the school improved and underscored the students' safety measures. In addition, it enhanced the school's capacity to effectively manage the mask fit records for the expanding student population. It also eliminated duplicate records and any substantial risk associated with human errors. This initiative not only enhances the efficiency of certification processes but also prepares students for the digital age workforce.

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest related to the publication of this manuscript.