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Mask wiggling as a potential cause of wound contamination
Abstract:
Some operating-theatre staff have a habit of wiggling their surgical masks by moving their facial muscles. The field contamination which can result from this practice was studied. A firmly fitting, moulded, synthetic-fibre mask produced significant bacterial contamination of culture plates held beneath the mask, compared with that found on simultaneously exposed control plates placed nearby. Softer fibreglass masks produced less contamination when moved by facial muscles, and are more suitable for mask wigglers.
Insights
Wiggling surgical masks can spread bacteria. Firmer masks contaminate more than softer ones when moved by facial muscles, suggesting softer masks are better for staff who fidget.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infection Control
- Surgical Practices
Background:
- Operating theatre staff may adjust surgical masks using facial muscles.
- This mask movement can potentially lead to bacterial contamination.
- Understanding mask material properties is crucial for maintaining sterile fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate bacterial contamination resulting from surgical mask movement by facial muscles.
- To compare contamination levels between different surgical mask materials.
- To identify mask types suitable for individuals who habitually adjust their masks.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial contamination was assessed using culture plates placed beneath surgical masks.
- Simultaneous exposure of control plates nearby allowed for comparison.
- Two mask types were tested: firmly fitting, moulded synthetic-fibre and softer fibreglass masks.
Main Results:
- Firmly fitting, moulded synthetic-fibre masks showed significant bacterial contamination on culture plates.
- Softer fibreglass masks exhibited less bacterial contamination when subjected to facial muscle movement.
- Contamination levels were significantly higher compared to simultaneously exposed control plates.
Conclusions:
- Movement of surgical masks by facial muscles can cause significant bacterial field contamination.
- Softer fibreglass masks are preferable to firmer synthetic-fibre masks for reducing contamination.
- Mask material choice is important for infection control, especially for staff prone to mask adjustment.