What is a Face Mask?
A face mask is a tool used to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. They can be also called isolation, dental, surgical, medical, or procedure masks. However, these are loose-fitted masks that cover the nose and mouth which contains ear loops to hold them in place. There are different brands of face masks and they come in different colors as well, so make sure to use a face mask that has been approved by a recognized health institution such as the FDA.
Why Use a Face Mask?
These face masks will help to reduce the spread of germs when someone talks, coughs, or sneezes. When someone talks, coughs, or sneezes they may release tiny drops into the air that can infect others. For someone who is ill, a mask can reduce the number of germs he/she releases and this can protect others from getting sick. For an individual who is healthy, it will protect them from splashes or sprays of body fluids which spread diseased.
When to Wear a Face Mask
It is better to wear a face mask when you get symptoms and you expect to be around other people. The face mask will protect other people from catching your illness. Healthcare workers and professionals have to follow specific rules in order to protect themselves from contagious diseases. Even for a healthy person if he/she is going to a place with a high risk of infection via body fluids it is better to wear a face mask.
How to Put on a Face Mask?
When wearing a face mask it is important to learn how to wear the mask properly to effectively take the use of the face mask. Here are the steps to correctly put on a face mask.
- Clean hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before touching the mask.
- Remove the mask from the packaging safely.
- Determine which side of the mask is the top. The side with a stiff bendable edge is the top and is used to mold to the shape of your nose.
- Then Determine which side of the mask is the front. Usually, the white side should touch the face and the colored side should face away from you.
- Follow the below instructions based on the type of mask you have;
- Mask with ear loops-
Hold the mask from the ear loops and place each loop around each ear.
- Mask with ties-
Bring the mask to the nose level and place ties over the crown of your head and secure it with a bow.
- Mask with bands-
Hold the mask in the hand with nosepiece or top at fingertips while allowing the headbands to hang freely below hands. Then bring the mask to the nose level and pull the top strap over the head so that it rests over the crown of your head. Pull the bottom strap over the head so that it rests at the nape of the neck.
- Mold or pinch the stiff edge to the shape of your nose.
- For a mask with ties, then take the bottom ties, one in each hand and secure with a bow at the nape of the neck.
- Pull the bottom of the mask over the mouth and chin.
How to Remove a Face Mask?
It is very important to learn how to remove a face mask properly and safely to avoid infections. So here are the steps to properly remove a face mask;
- Clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before touching the mask. Always avoid contact with the front of the mask because it is contaminated. Make sure to only touch the ear loops/ties/ band.
- Follow the below instructions based on the type of the mask;
- Mask with ear loops-
Hold both ear loops and gently lift and remove the mask.
- Mask with ties-
Untie the bottom first and then untie the top bow and pull the mask away from you as the ties get loosen.
- Mask with bands
Lift the bottom strap over the head first then pull the top strap over your head.
- Throw the mask directly in the trash.
- Clean your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
