ROSWELL, Ga., Sept. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Kimberly-Clark Health Care (KCHC) announced today that it has received 510(k) clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Kimberly-Clark Child’s Face Mask. This marks the first time that the FDA has granted any manufacturer 510(k) clearance for a pediatric face mask and establishes the product with the designation of a Class II medical device.

The decision by KCHC to undertake the 510(k) regulatory submission pathway for the Child’s Face Mask was in response to a call for action from the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA), the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and the Association of PeriOperative Registered Nurses (AORN). Those organizations and the FDA were important contributors in defining key considerations that shaped product design and recommended ages for use. KCHC worked with the FDA to develop standardized clinical measurements that are specific to the unique circumstances of pediatric mask use and performance in healthcare settings.

The Kimberly-Clark Child’s Face Mask is a single-use device that is intended to be worn by children ages 5-12 to provide protection for the respiratory tract, and has been specifically designed to fit small faces to maximize effectiveness, comfort and compliance. Featuring colorful Disney characters on its outer-facing panel to create familiarity and appeal, the mask is intended for use in healthcare settings such as waiting areas and exam rooms to protect children who may be at increased risk for infection. These include children who are already ill, immuno-compromised, displaying flu-like symptoms, potentially contagious while visiting a patient family member, or having a routine check-up during flu season or a pandemic outbreak. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even patients with undiagnosed respiratory symptoms should be asked to wear a face mask in the waiting room.

“Children are among our most vulnerable patients, and product design that reflects their unique physical and emotional characteristics can make a significant difference in our collective efforts to reduce the spread of infection,” said Jay Hexamer, General Manager, North America Medical Supplies, Kimberly-Clark Health Care. “Kimberly-Clark Health Care is proud to have received this landmark regulatory clearance for our pediatric face mask, and greatly appreciates the critical input and guidance we have received from our customers, the clinical community and the FDA.”

Kimberly-Clark in the Healthcare Environment

Around the world, medical professionals turn to Kimberly-Clark for a wide portfolio of solutions that improve the health, hygiene and well -being of patients and hospital staff. As part of their healing mission, caregivers rely on Kimberly-Clark to deliver clinical solutions and educational resources that they can depend on to prevent, diagnose and manage a wide variety of healthcare-associated infections. As a global enterprise with more than $1 billion in annual sales, Kimberly-Clark Health care holds the No. 1 and No. 2 market share positions in several categories including; infection control solutions, surgical solutions, pain management and digestive health. Throughout the care continuum, patients and staff alike trust Kimberly-Clark medical supplies and devices, KLEENEX tissues, Kimberly-Clark Professional skin care products and SCOTT towels for day-to-day needs. For more information, please visit http://www.kchealthcare.com

SOURCE Kimberly-Clark Health Care