Dr Nora

Whether you’re using them to protect yourself from bushfire fumes, viruses or simply a fashion statement, in today’s episode of Dr Nora I take you through the surgical, P2 and N95 mask. Discussing what each are used for, how to perform a fit check and how to safely dispose of used masks.

SURGICAL MASKS

Surgical masks were originally designed to be used by surgeons helping to keep bugs from their mouth and nose from entering the sterile surgical field and thus reducing the chance of infection. As they are not tight fitting however, they do not provide protection against viruses. They are useful to use if you yourself, has flu like symptoms and do not wish to spread your illness to others.

P2/N95 MASK

Both the P2 and N95 mask block at least 95% of small particles. The difference between the two is where their testing requirements originated from, the N95 being tested in the USA and the P2 by European standards.

P2 RESPIRATORS

P2 respirators are considered to be sufficient for protection against viruses, however, in your local hardware store you may find some masks that offer additional protection to fumes, odours and pesticides. Always read the label to ensure adequate protection for your use.

HOW TO USE THE MASKS

It is very important that when using these masks they are fitted correctly. A fit check must be performed which ensures that there is no leakage of air around the mask on both inhalation and exhalation. To perform this, simply breath in and out with your hands around the mask to ensure there is no leakage. If you suspect there is an air leak readjust and tighten the mask.

I hope you’ve found this video useful and always, if you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line below.

Take care and stay healthy 😘

Dr Nora 💉

Source: https://instagram.com/p/B80J0MepPE8/

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With an increasing number of confirmed cases of the novel virus at present in Australia, measures are being taken to help stop the propagation of the virus.

In today’s episode of Dr Nora I talk to you about my battle of finding protective measures to protect myself and my patients.

WHAT IS THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS?

Wuhan is a city in China where the virus originated from. It is not fully understood how the virus is transmitted but it is believe that it originated in a live seafood market and has so far affected many people in China and currently has a mortality rate of 2%. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

The virus causes symptoms pneumonia, including, fever, cough, shortness of breath and feeling unwell and tired. It is believed that there is an incubation period of around 14 days which means that someone may not know they have the virus immediately.

WHO IS AT RISK?

Those who have travelled to Wuhan or those who have close contacts with someone who has recently travelled or has a confirmed case.

HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF?

Usual hygiene measures are crucial such as regular hand washing. It has currently not been recommended for the general public to use a mask outside of the health care setting.

I THINK I HAVE CORONAVIRUS WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If you have a suspicion you may be affected as perhaps you’ve recently travelled from there or know a close contact. You should maintain isolation and seek medical help. It is imperative that before you go to a doctor or the ED you must call ahead so that protective measures may be taken. You will need to be in isolation to protect others around you and hence stop the propagation of this virus.

I hope you’ve found this video useful and always, if you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line below.

Take care and stay healthy 😘

Dr Nora 💉

Source: https://instagram.com/p/B8YCLohJpM8/