What it means
A tight-fitting face respirator that protects the wearer from germs carried on very small particles in the air. "95" means it filters at least 95% of very small particles, and "N" means it is not resistant to oil. Health care workers wear one for airborne precautions, such as for tuberculosis, measles and chickenpox, and for some procedures that spray particles into the air. A surgical mask is looser and does not give this protection.
For the nurse
Be fit-tested for the model you use, and do a seal check each time you put it on. Put it on before entering the room and take it off after leaving and closing the door.
At a glance
| Also written | N95 respirator, N95 mask |
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Related terms
personal protective equipment
Gear worn to protect a health worker from germs and body fluids, such as gloves, gowns, masks, respirators and eye protection.
respirator
A close-fitting mask or hood that filters the air a person breathes to protect them from germs or harmful particles.
airborne precautions
Infection control steps, used with standard precautions, for germs that spread through tiny particles that stay in the air.