The Journal of laryngology and otology
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The current circumstances of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic necessitate the use of personal protective equipment in hospitals. N95 masks and face shields are being used as personal protective equipment to protect from aerosol-related spread of infection. Personal protective equipment, however, hampers communication. This study aimed to assess the effect of using an N95 mask and face shield on speech perception among healthcare workers with normal hearing. ⋯ Use of personal protective equipment significantly impairs speech perception. Alternate communication strategies should be developed for effective communication.