Surgical masks introduced for all DHB staff and visitors
Under the RED setting, it’s business as usual with surgery and outpatient appointments going ahead, and only minor changes expected for visiting hours at Canterbury DHB hospitals.
Senior Responsible Officer for COVID-19 in Canterbury Dr Helen Skinner, said the key change for anyone entering any DHB facility from Monday 24th January 2022 will be the need to wear a paper surgical/medical mask.
“We know these paper masks are more effective than a fabric mask or cloth face covering, and this is something we can all do to help protect our vulnerable patients and ourselves.
“We ask that people pay particular attention to physical distancing as well. In practice that means staying at least one metre away from anyone not in your household,” Dr Skinner said.
Canterbury DHB is also advising all its staff (clinical and non-clinical) to wear surgical masks, with N-95s for clinical staff in certain areas.
Tips for wearing a surgical/paper mask
Do
- Wash or sanitise your hands before handling your mask.
- Hold the mask by the straps.
- Fan it out to cover the mouth, chin and nose.
- Disposable surgical masks are worn with the blue/coloured side facing outwards.
- Ensure the stiff strip is at the top and moulds comfortably over the bridge of your nose.
- Securely hook the elastic straps directly over your ears. Do not create a figure eight with the straps as this creates air gaps.
Don’t
- Play with, or touch your mask unnecessarily.
- Let anyone else touch or wear your mask.
- Leave your mask lying around or on a table.
Change your mask
- If it becomes moist or soiled; or
- After eating.
Used and soiled surgical masks should be disposed of in the regular (landfill) rubbish bin after cutting the elastic straps.