Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is commonly used to prevent respiratory infections?

Surgical masks are specifically designed to cover the nose and mouth, providing a barrier against respiratory droplets that can carry infectious agents, including viruses and bacteria responsible for respiratory infections. They play a crucial role in preventing the transmission of pathogens, particularly in healthcare settings where exposure risk is heightened.

While gloves, face shields, and gowns are important pieces of personal protective equipment, they serve different primary purposes. Gloves protect the hands from contamination and are mainly used when handling potentially infectious materials. Face shields offer eye protection and are often used in conjunction with masks, but do not provide a comprehensive solution for respiratory protection on their own. Gowns are utilized to protect the skin and clothing from blood and body fluid splashes but do not address the need to filter respiratory droplets.

In contrast, surgical masks are specifically intended to reduce the likelihood of inhalation or exhalation of infectious agents, making them the most appropriate choice for preventing respiratory infections in various settings.