- 1). Select a mask that has been approved by one or all of the major surgical mask testing agencies: the FDA, the ANSI, the AORN and the ASTM. These organizations test masks for their ability to protect against fluids, permeability of microorganisms, flammability and many other concerns of health care workers.
- 2). Find a mask that will cover your nose and mouth and extend to your chin. It is the mask’s primary job to provide ample coverage of the nose and mouth in order to both prevent the wearer from acquiring germs and to prevent the wearer from spreading germs, especially in a surgical situation.
- 3). Observe the different shapes of surgical masks and determine which will be best for your needs. Some popular styles include: flat fold tie-on, duckbill, flat fold with shields and duckbill with shields. Shields are useful, especially in surgical situations, where bodily fluids may get on the mask wearer.
- 4). Purchase a surgical mask from the "Surgical Shop." There are a generous selection of masks for you to try. The main drawback is not being able to try on the masks in person.
- 5). Try out the masks at a medical supply store in your area. A quick search in the yellow pages will point you to these stores. Many times they will have sample masks for you to try in order to determine your needs.
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