Face Mask Selection Guide
Your ability to make timely and accurate choices is critical. When you have the right information at your fingertips, you can make smarter decisions, faster.
Protection over preference
Safety is everyone’s concern but your mask choice is your own. With all of the key facts and safety factors in mind for facial protection, you can select an ASTM-rated mask that is right for you and protects the best.
Follow the leaders
ASTM International sets the preferred international standard in healthcare for best practices inclusive of testing and requirements for performance of materials.
The FDA, who oversees the sale and marketing of all surgical masks, recommends that manufacturers demonstrate mask performance in 4 areas:
- Fluid Resistance
- Differential Pressure
- Filter Efficiency
- Flammability
The Face Mask Selection Guide includes critical highlights on ASTM Standards, provides situational style and feature guidance and common procedures where Cardinal Health Clinician’s recommend an ASTM Level 3 Mask* for barrier protection.
Understanding ASTM levels of protection is Key
| ASTM F2100-11 Levels | Resistance to penetration by synthetic blood, minimum pressure in mm Hg for pass result | Differential pressure, mm H20/cm2 (Breathability) | Bacterial filtration efficiency | Sub-micron particulates filtration efficient at 0.1 micron | Flame spread |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Level 1: low barrier protection General use for short procedures and exams that don’t involve aerosols, spray or fluids |
80 mm Hg | <4.0 | ≥95% | ≥95% | Class1 |
Level 2: moderate barrier protection For low to moderate levels of aerosols, spray and/or fluids |
120 mm Hg | <5.0 | ≥98% | ≥98% | Class1 |
Level 3: maximum barrier protection For heavy levels of aerosols, spray and/or fluids |
160 mm Hg | <5.0 | ≥98% | ≥98% | Class1 |
The “4 Fs” of selecting the right mask
Filtration
Filter it
When you’re around smoke or are interacting with a TB-infected patient, properly protect yourself with a high filtration mask (N95 Respirator).
Fluid resistance
In matters of splatter
When at risk of encountering blood and/or bodily fluid splatter, wear the recommended ASTM Level 3 fluid-resistant mask and get the best protection for the OR.
Features
Bells and whistles,
Ties and loops
Securement – loops or ties (Mask with ear loops are not recommend for the OR). Anti-fog film, foam and tapes reduce distractions from fogging issues. Shields and protective eyewear keep eyes clear of blood and splash.
Fit
The fit is it
Even the right mask not worn correctly could put you at risk. Nose and mouth must be covered completely. Create a seal around the face to prevent gaps that increase the risk of inhalation exposure.
The Face Mask Selection Guide includes critical highlights on ASTM Standards, provides situational style and feature guidance and common procedures where Cardinal Health Clinician’s recommend an ASTM Level 3 Mask* for barrier protection.
* Based on fluid exposure guidelines from ASTM
Understanding facial protection CE
The purpose of this continuing nursing education activity is to provide a review of the clinical considerations regarding the appropriate selection and use of facial protection devices in various surgical practice settings. It will provide an overview of the health hazards inherent to the perioperative environment.