What type of respirator is typically used for airborne precautions?

The N95 (HEPA) respirator is specifically designed to filter out a minimum of 95% of airborne particles, including large respiratory droplets and smaller aerosolized particles. This level of filtration is critical in healthcare settings when dealing with airborne precautions, which are necessary for certain infections that can be transmitted through the air, such as tuberculosis or COVID-19.

Unlike a surgical mask, which primarily protects others from the wearer’s respiratory droplets, the N95 respirator creates a tighter fit around the face and is designed to protect the wearer from inhaling hazardous airborne particles. This effectiveness makes the N95 respirator the standard choice when airborne precautions are warranted, ensuring maximum safety for healthcare providers in situations where airborne transmission is a concern.

Other types of masks, such as the surgical mask, face shield, and regular mask, do not offer the same level of protection against fine particles and aerosols. This is crucial for maintaining safety in environments where airborne diseases may be present.