Today we will talk about medical face masks. We will find out what they are, how and how much they need to be worn, and also whether there is any benefit from them. Read about all this in the article below.
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A medical mask is an individual means of protecting the respiratory system from viruses and bacteria that are transmitted by airborne droplets. They are disposable and reusable, but the first option is more common.
Disposable medical face masks are a bandage that is worn over the face, covering the mouth and nose. Most often it has 3 or 4 layers. Stays on the face thanks to the ties at the back or the elastic loops that are worn over the ears.
History of origin
Yes, the medical protective face mask also has its own history. It is believed that the first such mask appeared in Europe back in the Middle Ages, when an epidemic of the bubonic plague raged in the yard. They called it at that time "the Plague Doctor's mask". It looked rather strange at the time, but nevertheless it was practical. The beak, that is, the front part of the mask, was filled with medicinal herbs or aromatic salts in order to protect the doctor's sense of smell from the nasty smells of rotting flesh, as well as to create an antibacterial environment inside the mask. The mask was worn all over the face, and the eye holes were closed with glass.
In the 19th century, doctors began to use woolen bandages with a valve. They were replaced by terrifying masks from the Middle Ages. Medical face masks in their modern form appeared only at the beginning of the last century. This happened when Schroeder proved the effectiveness of cotton filters for air purification. The evidence was based on research by Louis Pasteur on the spread of microorganisms. Masks became especially widespread when the deadly flu epidemic - "Spanish flu" broke out. Already by the 20s of the last century, the use of gauze dressings by medical workers became mandatory.
In the modern world, disposable dressings are most often used, which are made from non-woven materials.
Views
There are several types of medical face masks. Their main classification concerns the purpose. There are procedural (everyday) and specialized (surgical) masks. The procedural masks have 3 layers and are made from disposable. They have a filter in the middle and 2 outer layers. Depending on the size, there are medical facials and adults. They are used in clinics, hospitals and public places.
Specialized masks are those that consist of 4 layers, and in addition to 2 outer layers and a filter, they have an anti-liquid layer. It protects the face from biological fluids that are involved during the operation. Such masks can be with or without a screen. They are used only for operations.
Masks are also divided into sterile and non-sterile. The latter are most often used in everyday life. Since the material is in contact with the outer skin layer, no further disinfection is required. Sterile masks are applicable in laboratories, operating rooms, etc. Under normal conditions, it is impractical to use sterile masks, as they instantly lose their properties.
Material
In the Middle Ages, masks were made of everything. Then it was wool time. But masks made from this material did not last long. Today masks are made from non-woven materials, which are composed of polymer fibers.
What does it consist of?
Medical face masks have 2 outer layers, which are their framework. There is also a filter that sits between the layers. Then comes the anti-liquid layer, but only in surgical masks. There is a nose clip, an ear-loop or elastic band, a nose clip and an anti-liquid shield, which is only in specialized masks.
How much to wear?
Wearing the mask lasts 2-6 hours. To a large extent, the period of time depends on the conditions of the external environment. Experts recommend wearing masks for no more than 2 hours during epidemics or medical facilities. Masks that are used to protect against man-made environmental factors can be worn for 3-6 hours.
Many people wonder about which side to face to wear a medical mask. So, they must be worn with the white side to the face. You can navigate by the ear loops or ties: they are on the side that should touch the face.
Efficiency
Do you want to know the name of a medical face mask? That's what it's called. If you thought the correct name was "respirator", then you were wrong. Medical masks are often confused with those used to protect against airborne contamination. By the way, many studies have shown that masks are effective only when they fit tightly to the face around the entire perimeter and do not allow air to pass through. If air leaks out, the desired effect will not be achieved. Even through a small gap, up to 50% of all the air that a person inhales can leak. That is why for serious protection against microorganisms it is better to use a RPE - technical
The effectiveness of masks has been questioned after it was shown that surgical masks and respirators do not protect the doctor from harmful substances in the eyes. Experts in this case strongly recommend the use of RPE.
At the same time, research by scientists has not yet found much difference between the medical workers who wore and those who wore surgical masks. Their incidence rate was the same. The fluctuations were quite insignificant, although the characteristics of the protective elements varied greatly.
Surgical masks are not believed to be suitable for respiratory protection from air pollution. But at the same time, they can reduce the risk of harmful substances entering the air from a sick person, therefore they should be used to protect the health of people around.
In Russia, there are no clear and scientifically grounded recommendations on the use and selection of personal protective equipment. Respirators were practically equated to conventional masks, which, even by their design, are not designed to protect the human respiratory organs from contaminated air (it is impossible to achieve a snug fit to the face, there is no verification of the material used for filtration).
Summing up the article, I would like to say that medical face masks are inexpensive personal protective equipment that is better to have with you at all times. Such a mask cannot guarantee absolute protection, but the risk of getting infected with something will decrease many times. It is not so important whether research has been carried out on this matter or not, because the health of each person in his own hands... The main thing to remember is that if there is an opportunity to protect yourself, then it is better to do so than to regret later. Security measures come first.
Cool weather provokes the spread of viral infections that are transmitted by airborne droplets. But what to do, really do not have to leave the house for several weeks and not communicate with anyone? No, such extreme measures will not be needed, because you can protect the body by wearing a medical mask on your face. And despite the fact that such an accessory will attract attention, you can protect yourself from viral and bacterial infections.
Is a medical mask so effective?
This accessory can be worn by both healthy and sick people. The healthy mask protects against viruses, and helps the sick to prevent infection of others.
The accessory is mandatory for medical personnel, workers in the food industry.
Does the mask protect 100%? Alas, no, the likelihood of infection still exists. The only difference is that thanks to the mask, it is reduced several times. But why doesn't she give a 100% guarantee? The fact is that it does not adhere too tightly to the skin, as a result of which the infected air enters the nasopharynx.
One of the disadvantages of the mask is that high humidity forms under it, and this promotes the multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms and increases the chances of infection. Therefore, today there is no unequivocal opinion about whether it is worth wearing a mask for the purpose of prevention or not.
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If you've made the decision to protect yourself or prevent the infection of others, you need to learn how to properly wear the accessory. On sale you can find several types of medical masks - medical, for procedures and the most common, general use. Medical masks are equipped with nose restraints and must be worn inside.
How to wear a medical mask correctly and which side? Examine the accessory - if it has a water-repellent treatment, you need to place the mask this side inward. If the sides of the mask have a different color, put it on with the white layer inward and the colored layer outward.
Also, the manufacturer can provide the instructions that come with the kit, be sure to read it.
When wearing the mask, make sure that it is as tight as possible to the skin. If there are wrinkles, straighten them out. Then you need to secure the loops behind the ears.
How long can you wear a mask?
In no case should you wear the same accessory for several days, as bacteria accumulate on its inner surface, and besides, it loses its properties.
The duration of wearing depends on the type of mask and its properties. If it has a paper filter (the most readily available and cheapest model), it should be thrown away after two hours. If it is treated with a bactericidal agent, the period is increased to 4-5 hours.
To wash the medical mask or not?
Disposable masks must not be washed and discarded immediately. If we talk about reusable gauze masks, they can be washed. Use hot water and soap solution for washing. Let it dry, then iron the accessory with a hot iron, heat will destroy all bacteria.
How to wear a medical mask correctly and when it needs to be changed - we told you in detail about this in our article. If you follow the rules of use, the accessory will increase the chances of staying healthy and not getting infected.
Nobody likes to get sick. But, unfortunately, it is difficult to hide from infectious and viral diseases, especially for a socially active person. Microbes easily migrate from a sick person to a healthy person by airborne droplets and instantly infect the body. You can protect yourself from viruses and bacteria by taking medicines or easier - using medical masks.
How to put on a medical mask
Having bought a protective mask at a pharmacy, the first question arises - which side to wear it? The answer is simple - no difference. You can put on a medical mask on either side, and a rigid rib with a retainer should be adjacent to the nose. Microbes will accumulate equally on both blue and white surfaces. The standard mask is three-layer and the main function is performed by the inner layer.
But manufacturers recommend wearing products with the colored side out. This is due to the emergence of colored headbands that allow them to highlight the individuality of their wearer. So, which side to wear a medical mask is up to you.
What you should pay attention to:
The mask should have a good fixation and fit snugly to the nose, not slip or rub;
If you are prone to allergic reactions, avoid latex in the composition;
Check that the loops or ties on the garment fit well and tightly without causing discomfort.
How to wear a medical mask correctly. Terms of use
Many people believe that face bandages do not protect against viruses and bacteria at all. This is not true. The problem is that we don't know how to use them correctly. A medical mask is a barrier between the human mucosa and the source of infection. And its main task is to reduce the concentration of aerosol falling on the mucous membrane.
If we want to get the maximum effect, it is necessary to follow a number of rules on how to properly wear a flu mask.
- The mask should fit snugly over the face, completely covering the nose, mouth and chin.
- When using the bandage, do not touch it with your hands. Upon contact, the infection gets on the hands and can enter the body through the mucous membrane of the eyes or mouth.
- The mask can be removed only by the ear loops, without touching its fabric.
- Any hand contact with contaminated material should be thoroughly washed or a disinfectant spray should be used.
- Change masks every 2 hours. Dispose of used products only in the trash. No need to store a bandage, put it in a bag or pocket. Subsequent use can damage your health. Remember that the medical mask is disposable.
- It is necessary to put on a bandage on the face only in rooms, in transport or in direct contact with a sick person. On the street, the risk of illness is minimal and no mask is needed.
By following these simple rules, you can protect yourself from various diseases. The method of using medical masks is absolutely safe and not costly for every person. Use masks during periods of increased illness and in rooms where sick people are present. Remember that simple things sometimes save lives.
Wearing a medical mask is one of the ways to protect yourself from SARS or influenza during an epidemic. What are the types of personal respiratory protection? How to put on and use a mask correctly?
How to put on the mask correctly? The material should fit snugly against the face
Types and functions of medical masks
The rapid spread of colds occurs due to the fact that viruses are transmitted by airborne droplets. Stop the epidemic in time. preventive actions... During periods of activation of respiratory infections, persons in contact with patients are recommended by doctors to wear special masks.
The risk group also includes those who are in a room with a large number of people for a long time, use by public transport... At the same time, it makes no sense to wear a mask on the street, since the risk of infection in the fresh air is minimal.
The simplest design means of protection is a homemade or factory-made gauze bandage. The mask consists of 3-4 layers of lightweight cotton fabric. Ties are provided to fix it on the face. More technologically advanced products are made of polymer (nonwoven) materials. There are two types of such funds:
· Treatment masks, consisting of two outer layers and an inner filter, are used in public places, clinics and hospitals;
· Surgical masks, due to one more layer, provide protection from biological fluids, are intended for use in operating rooms.
The shape retainer and nose clip provide a snug fit to the face. The mask is attached to the head either with elastic ear loops or headbands.
How to put on the mask: instructions
Which remedy to choose? The duration of the gauze bandage is 2-4 hours, non-woven products - 4-6 hours. Thanks to the improved design, polymer masks filter the air better, more reliably protect the respiratory organs. At the same time, the gauze bandage can be reused after appropriate treatment, and the non-woven product is disposable.
How to put on the mask correctly?
1. The bag with the product is opened along the edge. A mask is taken out of it, holding it by the ties or elastic bands.
2. The protective equipment is brought close to the face with the white side inward. The mask is fixed in a position where the lower part of the face is completely covered - both the mouth and the nose.
3. Finally, shape the flexible strip (nose clip) into the desired shape, ensuring a snug fit of the product to the face.
The mask should not be touched with hands while wearing. If she gets wet, put on another one. Removing the product, it is held by the strings (elastic band). Disposable masks are thrown away, after which they must wash their hands with soap and water. Gauze dressings are washed in hot water, dried and ironed on both sides.
So, the filtering properties of medical masks depend on the material from which they are made. In order for the product to really protect, it must be worn correctly, and also worn, observing the rules of operation.
Autumn and early winter are the season of epidemics of influenza, colds and SARS. That is why during this dangerous period, do not forget about additional protective equipment such as respiratory masks.
Benefits and protection
Due to the onset of cold weather in many cities, the epidemiological threshold rises from year to year by about seventy-five to eighty percent. In addition to standard remedies for colds, such as strengthening the immune system, hardening, herbal tea, one of the most reliable ways to avoid contracting the virus is a medical mask. IN last years the number of people using respiratory masks on the streets of the city, in the metro, in hospitals has increased dramatically. Doctors say that this is due to the epidemic of avian and swine flu, as well as Ebola, the consequences of which were actively discussed in the media. Despite the fact that there are more people who prefer such a means of protection, it is still impossible to call this phenomenon massive.
This is confirmed by mass events, for example, hockey and football matches at which medical masks are distributed during the flu epidemic. However, statistics show that too often fans are so passionate about the game that they forget about the masks or do not change them according to the operating conditions.
A respiratory mask for influenza is recommended as a means of protection not only for healthy and sick people, but also for those who have already suffered a viral infection this season, since a weakened body is not yet able to resist the onslaught of new viral attacks. Since the virus is transmitted by airborne droplets and can enter the human body even with indirect contact with the patient.
According to epidemiologists, it is possible to reduce the risk of possible infection with influenza by sixty percent thanks to wearing a mask and regular hand washing with antibacterial soap. However, WHO warns: wearing a mask incorrectly increases the risk of infection viral infection.
How to wear a respiratory mask correctly (expert advice):
- a medical mask, when worn, must completely cover the mouth and nose;
- disposable medical masks must be changed every two to three hours;
- after removing the used mask, wash the face and sinuses with warm water, as well as hands with soap;
- you cannot reuse a disposable mask, that is, wash or treat with disinfecting sprays.
do it yourself
Not every person with health concerns can afford to use five to six medical masks a day.
This is due to the fact that, firstly, in some pharmacies in small towns and villages this is a scarce commodity, and secondly, the cost of such a means of protection increases significantly with the onset of cold weather, as a result, the price of one mask can reach twenty rubles.
Virologists have confirmed that, if absolutely necessary, the respiratory mask can be reused, for this it is necessary to wash it with ordinary washing powder and iron it with an iron on both sides, the temperature of the iron should be at least seventy degrees. If the above instructions are followed, viruses are completely destroyed.
Many, in order to save money, prefer to make masks on their own.
How to make a DIY antivirus mask? To do this, you need a piece of sterile medical gauze measuring 110x55 centimeters and cotton wool.
- Fold a piece of gauze in half, determine the center, then put an even, slightly crumpled layer of cotton wool 35x25 centimeters in size on it.
- The ends of sterile gauze, not filled with cotton, are cut with scissors, forming two pairs of laces.
- The top and bottom layers of the mask are folded in such a way that when worn, the mask covers the nose and mouth, leaving the lower part of the chin open.
Respiratory masks from fashion designers
During the cold and flu season, many online retailers and specialist pharmacies began to distribute unusual medical couture masks. For example, on sites you can find masks depicting funny faces, fairy-tale characters, animals and even heroes of your favorite films. Also, many offer such a service as the manufacture of masks according to the customer's sketches.
The author of this idea in his interview stated that such exclusive respiratory masks will not only help protect against the virus, but will also make their owner stand out from the crowd, and will also help good mood... In addition, such masks are made of a special material, which means that they retain their color and shape even after repeated washings.
The cost of such exclusive medical masks is about one hundred fifty - two hundred rubles.
Choosing a fabric base
Exclusive face mask (respiratory) is sewn only from cotton fabric or medical sterile gauze. Since the mask made of synthetic fabrics keeps harmful bacteria and does not "breathe".
The pre-folded fabric is cut into ten identical rectangles... Press tightly together and sew on a typewriter. A colored elastic is sewn to the edges of the mask. The finished product can be painted with special paints, decorated with embroidery or rhinestones. Interestingly, in addition to its direct purpose, a respiratory mask is an integral attribute of some photography. Fashion models mainly use it for "kagao", that is, imitating the modern Japanese movement.
Wearing a medical mask does not exclude the fact of contracting a viral infection, therefore, doctors recommend keeping at least one meter away from people with influenza or ARVO, as well as:
- Wipe your hands with disinfectant solutions.
- Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.
- Don't be in crowded places.
- Ventilate the office during work, as well as the bedroom before going to bed.
- Reduce contact with people who show signs of illness, such as coughing, runny nose, and so on.
At the first signs of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor, and also:
- Stay at home, not in crowded places.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing unless you are wearing a respirator mask. The medical dressing for sneezing and coughing is changed every hour.
- Disposable masks and tissue paper should be disposed of immediately after use.
- It is especially important to wash your hands with antibacterial soap during colds and flu.
American scientists said that medical respiratory masks do not protect against viral diseases, but, on the contrary, contribute to the multiplication of pathogenic viruses and bacteria in the respiratory tract. Scientists have conducted a study in which two thousand medical workers took part. The subjects were divided into two groups, the first group used cloth-based masks, the second - masks made of non-woven materials. The experiment was carried out for six months. After conducting the study, the scientists concluded that medical workers who wore fabric-based masks were much more likely to have weakened immunity and signs of respiratory diseases.
When using respiratory masks, it is important to remember that they do not contribute to the retention of pathogenic bacteria by 100%, but only are an auxiliary means during the SARS season.
