Which protective device is recommended to reduce transmission during CPR?

Which protective device is recommended to reduce transmission during CPR?

• A. Gloves
• B. Eye protection
• C. A protective mask
• D. No protection needed

Answer: (C)

During CPR, protecting yourself from potential infections is essential because rescue breaths can expose you to saliva, blood, and respiratory droplets. A barrier device like a protective mask creates a physical barrier between your mouth/nose and the patient’s airway, greatly reducing the chance of transmitting illness while you deliver breaths. Gloves are important for protecting your hands, and eye protection guards the eyes from splashes, but neither alone prevents respiratory droplets from reaching you. Not using any protection is unsafe. So, using a protective mask is the best way to lower transmission risk during CPR.

During CPR, protecting yourself from potential infections is essential because rescue breaths can expose you to saliva, blood, and respiratory droplets. A barrier device like a protective mask creates a physical barrier between your mouth/nose and the patient’s airway, greatly reducing the chance of transmitting illness while you deliver breaths. Gloves are important for protecting your hands, and eye protection guards the eyes from splashes, but neither alone prevents respiratory droplets from reaching you. Not using any protection is unsafe. So, using a protective mask is the best way to lower transmission risk during CPR.