What are the types of protective masks used in nursing?
Several types of protective masks are commonly used in nursing, each serving different purposes:
Surgical Masks: These are disposable masks that protect against large droplets, splashes, and sprays. They are commonly used during surgical procedures and in general patient care to prevent cross-contamination. N95 Respirators: These masks offer a higher level of protection by filtering out at least 95% of airborne particles. They are essential during procedures that generate aerosols or when dealing with highly transmissible diseases like tuberculosis and COVID-19. KN95 Masks: Similar to N95 respirators, KN95 masks offer comparable protection and are often used when N95 masks are in short supply. Cloth Masks: While not recommended for clinical settings, cloth masks can provide basic protection in non-clinical environments and are often used by healthcare workers when off-duty.
