A medical mask is perhaps the easiest way to prevent the spread of infection transmitted by airborne droplets. Thanks to her invention, it was possible to protect both patients and medical workers from unnecessary contacts with bacteria and viruses .
What does a medical mask usually consist of?
In the vast majority of cases, it is made of multilayer gauze. The fact is that this material, laid in one row, will not be able to become a reliable barrier to infection. In addition, such a medical mask is very quickly saturated with moisture and becomes useless. That is why their single-layer varieties, despite all the economic attractiveness, are not used. Most often in pharmacies a medical mask is sold 3-layer and 4-layer. They, when used in accordance with all the rules, can be excellent protection for many people.
A small layer of a protective substance is often applied to gauze, which increases the duration and effectiveness of its service. Also, there is either an elastic band or special ties that allow you to quickly attach the mask to your face.
The use of such a protective attribute is very beneficial from an economic point of view. The fact is that for a product such as a medical disposable mask, the price is set at a level of 2 to 3 rubles. To find something equally useful in the field of protection against the spread of infection and just as inexpensive is simply not possible.
How to use?
It is worth noting that with improper use, a medical mask can even be harmful to humans. First of all, it is necessary to remember that the patient who is the carrier of the infection should wear it. The fact is that the transmission of bacteria and viruses by airborne droplets is practically eliminated.
It must be remembered that the gauze mask is disposable, that is, after the first use it should be thrown into a container for medical waste. Moreover, today it has already been reliably established that this part of protective clothing can be worn for no more than 3 hours. This is due to the fact that over time, any gauze is saturated with moisture emitted during breathing. As a result, the mask becomes not protective, but, on the contrary, a very unfavorable attribute. Being saturated with moisture, it not only does not prevent the penetration of infection into the respiratory tract of a person, but also creates a condensation effect, which facilitates infection.
When is a medical mask needed?
As previously noted, it should be worn by those who have an infectious disease that can be transmitted by airborne droplets. In addition, it is highly recommended to wear a mask in health facilities during flu outbreaks. Also, it must be worn in the operating room: both for surgeons and other medical personnel. When performing manipulations in the treatment room , a gauze mask should also be worn. In this case, do not forget to change it every 3 hours.