How to Put on a Surgical Mask

dentist

The main purpose of wearing a surgical mask is to protect a patient and the wearer from germs and bacteria, especially those that can come from saliva splatter. When you think of surgical masks, you naturally think of surgeons and others who take part in surgeries (nurses, aides and respiratory technicians). Yet many other medical professionals, including dentists and dental hygienists, wears them on a daily basis to protect their patients and themselves.Since the surgical mask offers essential protection from bacteria and germs, you can see why great care needs to be taken when putting one on. Here are some simple steps to follow.

Things You'll Need

• Soap

Instructions

1. Make sure your hands are clean. Wash them in a quality-grade soap and rub them together to help loosen any dirt or bacteria. You may even be asked to put on a pair of sterile gloves before putting on the surgical mask.

2. Gently pull the mask open. You can do this easily by pulling on the top and bottom of the mask from the middle.

3. Gently place the mask over your face. Now rub over the area of the mask that will lie above your nose. This will allow the mask to fit your nose better, giving you greater comfort and better breathing.

4. Grasp the top ties in your hands and pull behind your head, near that area of your crown. Gently but firmly tie the top ties behind your head. Make sure the ties are tight enough to hold the mask in place. You may even want to tie them in a bow.

5. Pull the bottom ties behind your back. Tie them firmly together. Make sure the mask feels secure.

6. Rub over the area that covers your nose. Make sure it fits securely and snugly, especially if your mask has a built in nose piece.

7. Take a deep breath and let it out slowly. Does you feel like you can breathe smoothly and normally? Does you mask feel as it will stay in place? Adjust if needed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have anyone to help you, you should ask them to tie the mask for you. This will help ensure a proper and more secure fit.