Are you wondering about where to buy surgical face masks from? We get your reason behind the confusion since there are so many options out there. So, before you make a decision, you must learn the difference between each one of them.
Face Masks
- A face mask is something that covers your nose and mouth.
- It’s used to help prevent the spread of germs. Additionally, that is recommended for both the general public and healthcare workers by the CDC.
- Importantly, face masks don’t provide personal protection to the person wearing them. Moreover, they are more about protecting others from your germs.
- Some face masks may or may not offer good protection against fluids or small particles, so they can’t replace N95 respirators or surgical masks that offer better personal protection.
Surgical Masks
- Surgical masks are loose-fitting, disposable masks that create a physical barrier between your mouth and nose and potential contaminants in your surroundings.
- They come in different types, like surgical, isolation, dental, or medical procedure masks.
- When worn correctly, surgical masks can block big droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that might carry germs. Therefore, this helps protect your mouth and nose.
- However, they don’t do a great job of filtering very tiny particles in the air that could come from coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures.
- Surgical masks are meant for single use. Furthermore, if they are damaged, dirty, or make it hard to breathe, it’s time to replace them. Used masks should be put in a plastic bag and thrown in the trash, and don’t forget to wash your hands afterward.
N95 Respirators
- N95 respirators are special masks designed to fit tightly on your face and filter out very small airborne particles effectively.
- Their edges are made to create a seal around your nose and mouth. Similarly, it provides a high level of protection.
- Surgical N95 Respirators are often used in healthcare settings and are a specific type of N95 Filtering Facepiece Respirator (FFR), which is commonly known as an N95.
Comparing Surgical Masks and Surgical N95 Respirators
The FDA regulates surgical masks and surgical N95 respirators differently based on their intended use.
- Surgical masks are loose-fitting and create a physical barrier without forming a seal around the nose and mouth.
- N95 respirators are tightly fitted to the face, providing highly efficient filtration of airborne particles by forming a seal around the nose and mouth.
These distinctions highlight the importance of selecting the right protective gear for specific purposes, especially in healthcare settings. It’s essential to understand the differences between these items to ensure you’re adequately protected based on your needs and the tasks you’re performing.
What to Do Next?
You must be aware of what surgical masks and surgical N95 respirators are now. So, make your way to A2 Sustainable right this second to make a decision. Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and there will be heavy crowds everywhere. It’s better to be safe than sorry.