Review of N-95 mask under lockdown conditions
January 2, 2022
The latest protocol for infection control at Rosebridge Manor required enhanced mask protection and eye shields for essential visitors, most likely to protect patients and staff from outside contamination. After my rapid test, the guy at the door gave me a pair of vinyl goggles without vents. I discovered there are two layers of film which must be removed if one wishes to see, even badly. How do nurses and PSWs read while wearing these things? He did warn me not to run into anything.
The other component was a version of the treasured N-95 mask. It is unimpressive at first view: just a little strip of material and a couple of elastic bands. On closer examination one finds it surprisingly solid and heavy, with a substantial metal nose frame, but also a membrane between the eyes and the metal clasp, as well as contouring for a tight fit over the chin aided by the two elastic bands, one over the back of the head and the other around the neck. The fit and general quality of the mask are impressive, notwithstanding the two rows of ordinary staples pegging the elastic bands in place.
Breathing through the N-95 is an entirely different matter than wearing a blue surgical mask. I couldn’t stand the air deprivation for more than an hour. It would take much better lungs than mine to deliver a lecture — or even take part in a conversation — while wearing one of these barriers.
Trying to read a book or computer screen while wearing goggles, bifocals and an N-95 just boggles the mind.
Is the N-95 an effective barrier against airborne virus threats? It is certainly better at sealing off extraneous air supplies than a blue surgical mask, which remains a reasonable protection for others if one is prone to sudden sneezes. For a short time in an environment where the risk of viral infection is high and one must enter, the N-95 seems a good idea, though avoiding the situation entirely remains by far the better plan.
I promised the guy on the door that I would take good care of the mask and goggles, and bring them along for my next visit so as not to waste any PPE kit.
the Walnut Diary 
January 2, 2022 at 9:13 am
I have never heard of the requirement for goggles but I can certainly sympathize with anyone who has to get kitted out with mask and goggles if they wear bifocals!
January 2, 2022 at 11:25 am
Technically, all masks, including N95’s are supposed to be “one time use”. I found access to N95’s from Day One at the local In-Home Oxygen store. Initially, they were $15 @. The price dropped now to $5 @. Either way, too expensive for one-time use. The best way to sanitize them is to leave them on the dashboard shelf in your car where the ultraviolet light from the sun will do the trick. (Face side to the sun). Don’t put them in your dishwasher or clothes dryer! Grin