Infection Control · single question
Protection against airborne TB — what mask provides adequate filtration?
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Correct answer: C. N95 respirator (≥95% filtration of 0.3-micron particles) — minimum for TB protection
✓ C) N95 respirator is the MINIMUM requirement for TB protection.
TB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) spreads via airborne droplet nuclei (1–5 microns). N95 = filters ≥95% of 0.3-micron particles — meets the MINIMUM standard for TB protection. Must be fit-tested. Surgical masks do NOT filter particles to ≥95% and are NOT protective for TB. The '>95% mask' mentioned in the PDF = N95. For active TB patients: dental treatment should be deferred to a facility with negative-pressure rooms. If emergency treatment needed: N95 for operator, patient should wear surgical mask during transport.
TB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) spreads via airborne droplet nuclei (1–5 microns). N95 = filters ≥95% of 0.3-micron particles — meets the MINIMUM standard for TB protection. Must be fit-tested. Surgical masks do NOT filter particles to ≥95% and are NOT protective for TB. The '>95% mask' mentioned in the PDF = N95. For active TB patients: dental treatment should be deferred to a facility with negative-pressure rooms. If emergency treatment needed: N95 for operator, patient should wear surgical mask during transport.
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