Policies for masks in the OR

[maritimegirl]

I was just wondering if some of you could give me some input on what your policies are for masks in the OR. We are required to wear masks at all times even if there is no case set up in that room, and even after hours when there are no surgeries taking place. From what I understand, this isn't the case at other hospitals. Anyone have any input?

[Rae83]

We only wear masks in the actual room after sterile supplies are opened except for clean cases. I have been told the same thing about the patient not wearing mask because it is their germs. I have also heard that after about 15 minutes of wearing the same mask the only thing it is doing is protecting the person wearing it from splash and splatter because the material becomes moist from breathing and allows germs to pass....now whether or not that is true I don't really know, I haven't personally researched it.

I don't see the point in wearing a mask all the time, but I did hear of a facility that requires OR personnel to wear masks ANYWHERE in the OR except in the pt holing area and PACU.....crazy huh.