When you’re required to wear a surgical N95 mask, you have to take certain precautions to make sure you’re breathing safely and soundly, which include wearing the mask correctly and knowing what it does and doesn’t do. Follow these five tips for breathing safely and soundly in a surgical N95 mask so that you don’t end up sick because of it.
Not All Surgical N95 Masks are Created Equal
Though they may look the same, surgical masks are not always created equally. Different types of masks perform differently in their filtering efficiency, material thickness, seal around the neck (or lack thereof), and even their ability to contour to the face.
Here are 5 tips for breathing safely and soundly in a surgical mask: – Purchase a NIOSH-approved surgical mask. A NIOSH-approved surgical mask has been tested by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health as it is more likely to protect you from airborne pathogens that could be present during your work day.
Seal your surgical mask snugly around your neck. If there is any gap at all, air will leak through your nose or mouth because it doesn’t go over those areas and can’t be blocked by the facial tissue in front of them.
The Fit of Your Surgical N95 Mask All the Difference
When the CDC recommends wearing surgical masks to help prevent getting sick with flu or another respiratory virus, they’re talking about a specific type of mask. An N95 or PAPR (positive pressure air-purifying respirator) respirator is designed to filter microscopic particles by trapping them against the surface of the mask.
To get the best fit possible, follow these five tips: 1. Adjust the nosepiece so that it covers your nose’s bridge and not just your nostrils. 2. Make sure that the top edge of the mask lines up with your eyebrows. 3. Use an elastic strap to make sure it stays on snugly without slipping off when you move around. 4. If you have long hair, tie it back before putting on the mask. 5. Tuck any loose clothing under the elastic straps for a better seal at your neck and waist.
Breath in with Your Nose, Breathe out with Your Mouth
It’s important to be able to breathe well while wearing a surgical mask. A surgical mask only provides about 85% protection for the wearer, so if you don’t have time to take care of yourself (you can’t afford air purifiers, masks can trigger asthma) the best course of action is to avoid wearing them altogether. Here are five tips for breathing safely and soundly when you need or want to wear an N95 respirator:
1. Check your nares with your fingers. The nose has many tiny openings called nares. These nares are located on either side of the bridge of your nose. When you put on a mask, it will block these openings unless they’re checked first and cleaned out as needed. 2. Use nasal strips instead of tape to seal off your nostrils.
Mistakes to Avoid When Breathing through A Surgical N95 Mask
One common mistake people make when breathing through a surgical mask is tilting their head back, which allows the contaminated air to flow into their nose rather than down into the mask. If you wear contacts, make sure to take them out before donning your mask because doing so can irritate your eyes.
Another mistake is wearing the mask incorrectly. The cup that covers your mouth should not touch any other part of your face or hair. It’s also important to avoid yawning while wearing the mask as this can disrupt its seal. Finally, if you’re having trouble breathing while wearing the mask, it might be too tight on your face and needs loosening up.
This is great, super clear and helpful. Thanks!