Types of Masks Used in Hospitals: Surgical Masks, N95 Respirators, and Face Shields

Written By Natalie Brooks, BS, CPT

Summary

  • Surgical Masks
  • N95 Respirators
  • Face Shields

Introduction

Masks play a crucial role in protecting healthcare workers and patients from viral infections and other airborne illnesses in hospitals. In the United States, various types of masks are used in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain a safe environment for all individuals. In this article, we will explore the most common types of masks used in hospitals for protection against viral infections.

Surgical Masks

Surgical masks are the most commonly used masks in hospitals for protection against viral infections. These masks are loose-fitting and provide a physical barrier to prevent respiratory droplets from entering the nose and mouth of healthcare workers and patients. Surgical masks are typically made of multiple layers of non-woven fabric and are designed to be disposable after single use. They are not designed to provide a tight seal around the face like respirators but are effective in reducing the spread of infectious droplets.

  1. Constructed of multiple layers of non-woven fabric
  2. Loose-fitting and disposable after single use
  3. Effective in reducing the spread of infectious droplets

N95 Respirators

N95 respirators are specialized masks that are designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including small respiratory droplets that may contain viruses. These masks provide a tight seal around the face and are designed to protect healthcare workers from inhaling infectious particles. N95 respirators are recommended for use in high-risk situations where healthcare workers may be exposed to airborne pathogens, such as during procedures that generate respiratory aerosols.

  1. Filter out at least 95% of airborne particles
  2. Tight seal around the face
  3. Recommended for high-risk situations

Face Shields

Face shields are clear plastic shields that are worn over the face to protect healthcare workers from splashes, sprays, and respiratory droplets. While face shields are not a substitute for masks, they provide an additional layer of protection for the eyes, nose, and mouth. Face shields are commonly used in conjunction with masks to provide full-face protection against infectious particles.

  1. Protect healthcare workers from splashes and sprays
  2. Additional layer of protection for the eyes, nose, and mouth
  3. Used in conjunction with masks

Conclusion

In conclusion, masks are essential equipment in hospital supply and equipment management for protecting healthcare workers and patients from viral infections. Surgical masks, N95 respirators, and face shields are the most common types of masks used in hospitals in the United States to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain a safe healthcare environment. By understanding the different types of masks available and their specific uses, hospitals can effectively manage their supply and equipment to ensure the safety of all individuals.

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Natalie Brooks, BS, CPT

Natalie Brooks is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Florida. With 8 years of experience working in both clinical and research settings, Natalie has become highly skilled in blood collection techniques, particularly in high-volume environments. She is committed to ensuring that blood draws are conducted with the utmost care and precision, contributing to better patient outcomes.

Natalie frequently writes about the latest advancements in phlebotomy tools, strategies for improving blood collection efficiency, and tips for phlebotomists on dealing with difficult draws. Passionate about sharing her expertise, she also mentors new phlebotomists, helping them navigate the challenges of the field and promoting best practices for patient comfort and safety.

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