In what instances is the use of a N95 respirator required?

The use of a N95 respirator is specifically required when there is a risk of airborne transmission of infectious agents, such as tuberculosis. N95 respirators are designed to filter out small particles from the air, including bacteria and viruses that can be transmitted through the air over long distances. Tuberculosis, for example, is known to spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it essential for healthcare providers to wear an N95 respirator to protect themselves and prevent the spread of the infection.

In contrast, situations like administering medication, routine patient check-ups, or performing wound care typically do not involve the same level of risk for airborne transmission of infectious agents, and therefore, do not necessitate the use of an N95 respirator. Instead, standard precautions, such as wearing gloves or surgical masks, may be sufficient in those scenarios. Thus, the requirement for an N95 respirator is specifically tied to the nature of the infectious agent and the method of transmission, with airborne diseases necessitating this higher level of respiratory protection.