Life on the front line.

[mickd1961]

When we are the patient's bedside and working closely with them we are suppose to be using the PP3 masks which are a specific test fitting type of mask for the individual. After about two days of the pandemic...we were out of those masks. We were supplied with a substitute PP3 mask. There is a tight seal around the mouth and nasal openings with PP3. When away from the patient bedside, in other words when we are in general walking on the corridors in the between wards...it is mandatory to wear a face mask covering to prevent spreading any droplets should you cough or sneeze. Yes the loose mask may not prevent you from being infected...but it can reduce the virus from spreading further then it other wise would without a mask...

I think the bull shyte you hear about the science doesn't prove it...is just that..BS. When I see the micro biology people wearing masks all the time...then thats enough for me...These guys know...this is highly contagious, more so then the Flu virus. I have worn a face mask for some time because I cycle around and the pollution is quite bad at times....I certainly would be using one when restriction are lifted....The Virus is still novel......so no one really knows the next step...there is no guide book for this...
But one thing is for sure...the only person really concerned for my well being is me...not some Government agent bureaucrat, who doesn't know me nor cares less about me....
Clearly this is an unscientific response..just someone watching and involved in the front line each day...

One last thing....BB, we have infection control people working in the hospital who come down on you if they see any kind of bad practice...we have realms of good practice guide protocols to read through which are updated all the time...and yet when the PPE became an issue they were happy to change protocol at the drop of hat. Hardly our best interests at heart... Over in the UK..it was shocking to see the national health guidelines bent out of shape ...in telling doctors and nurses and in genera front line staff..that you could you "Single Use Only" more then once????
Remember that!!

As always very informative thanks Dubs.

Is there a mask you’d recommend for Joe Public that we can use safely day after without having to constantly buy a replacement?

[Dubbag]

As always very informative thanks Dubs.

Is there a mask you’d recommend for Joe Public that we can use safely day after without having to constantly buy a replacement?

The material in most disposable masks begins to deteriorate after about two hours of use. This is due to the increased moisture content from your constant exhaling which causes the fibers to degrade. A more robust face mask can still be a problem. The more washable mask has a more water resistant material in them but they prevent your exhaled air from clearing quickly through the fibers. You can actually and do feel more lite headed after a while with these masks. If you are exerting yourself...then they are more uncomfortable then the cheaper one.
You have to also remember that the virus can enter through the eyes as well as the nasal passages and mouth.
Short answer Mick...try get the PP3 masks...get a few of them. But they are in very short supply at the minute.