The ultimate guide to wearing facemask; Do’s and Dont’s.

Procedure mask also called an isolation mask is a disposable mask that protects the wearer from droplets that might be infectious. A version of this mask with a built-in face shield to protect against splashes is also available.

Facemask

DO’s

The following list should be taken into consideration when wearing a facemask.

1.  Make sure to wear your face mask to protect yourself from infectious droplets that may occur when patients cough, sneeze, laugh, or talk.
2. Check to make sure that mask has no defects, such as a tear or torn strap or ear loop.
3.  Bring both top ties to the crown of the head and secure with a bow, tie button ties securely at the nape of the neck in a bow.
4.  Remove the mask when no longer in clinical space and the patient intervention is complete.
5. For an ear loop mask, remove the mask from the side of your head tilt forward. For tied masks, remove by handling only the ties, and untie the bottom tie followed by the top tie.
6. Properly dispose of the mask by touching only the ear loop or the ties. Perform Hand hygiene before and after removing a surgical mask or any type of Personal protective equipment such as your gloves and gown.

DONT’S

1. Don’t use for protection against very small particles that float in the air (Eg. measles TB or chickenpox, coronavirus)
2.  Don’t wear if wet or soiled, get a new mask.
3. Don’t crisscross ties
4. Don’t leave a mask hanging off one ear or hanging around the neck.
5. Don’t reuse, toss it after wearing.
6. Don’t touch the front of the mask, as it is contaminated after use.