Mask and Eye-Face Protection Selection
Key Points
- Surgical masks are selected for droplet-risk care and selected immunocompromised care contexts.
- N95 respirators are selected for airborne-particle protection and require tight fit and fit-check.
- Goggles and face shields protect eyes, nose, and mouth membranes during splash-risk procedures.
Equipment
- Surgical masks and N95 respirator supply
- Goggles that fit snugly around the eyes
- Face shields that cover forehead, extend below chin, and wrap laterally
- Unit policy references for standard and transmission-based precautions
Procedure Steps
- Identify expected exposure route before care: droplet, airborne, or splash/body-fluid hazard.
- Select surgical mask for droplet situations and appropriate immunocompromised-care masking needs per policy.
- Select N95 respirator when airborne-particle protection is required.
- Confirm N95 fit and perform fit-check before exposure-risk entry.
- Add goggles or face shield when splash risk to eyes, nose, or mouth is present.
- Verify chosen eye/face barrier provides appropriate coverage and stable fit.
- Replace any mask that becomes wet from exhaled moisture because barrier integrity declines.
- Reassess selection if patient condition, procedure type, or isolation order changes.
- Document PPE rationale for high-risk encounters when local protocol requires.
Common Errors
- Using surgical mask in airborne-risk context → inadequate respiratory protection.
- Omitting eye/face barrier during splash-risk care → mucous membrane exposure risk.
- Continuing to use a wet mask → reduced protective integrity.
- Skipping fit-check before N95 use → unrecognized seal failure.
Related
- n95-respirator-use-and-fit-check - Detailed workflow for respirator placement and seal verification.
- ppe-selection-by-exposure-risk - Full PPE decision framework across exposure categories.