What additional protection is advisable for medical personnel treating contaminated patients?

When treating contaminated patients, the use of an N95 mask and gloves provides a crucial level of protection. The N95 mask is designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including large respiratory droplets that may carry infectious agents. This is particularly important in situations where patients may be exhibiting symptoms of a highly contagious disease or when aerosol-generating procedures are being performed.

Gloves are equally critical in creating a barrier against direct contact with contaminated fluids and tissues. They prevent healthcare workers from transferring infectious agents from the patient to themselves and vice versa. The combination of an N95 mask and gloves is a standard practice to ensure that medical personnel are protected from both airborne and contact transmission of pathogens.

In contrast, while a surgical mask may offer some protection, it does not provide the same level of filtration for airborne particles as an N95 mask. A full hazmat suit, while offering extensive protection, may not always be practical or necessary for all scenarios involving contaminated patients. A face shield provides some protection against splashes but does not offer respiratory protection or protection for the hands.

The combination of an N95 mask and gloves strikes a balance between adequate protection and practicality in a variety of clinical settings when dealing with contaminated patients.