Critical advice on the use of face masks and gloves
Nursun Üstünkarlı, Lecturer at Paramedic Program, Izmir University of Economics (IUE), called attention to the mistakes made in using face masks and gloves stating that they would increase the risk of diseases, and she provided critical advice on how to use them. Reminding that face masks and gloves left in open spaces continue to be the source of infection, Üstünkarlı said, “Discarded face masks and/or gloves should be treated as infectious materials, and not be left out in open spaces where living creatures could be in contact with them. As we all know, coronavirus can survive on surfaces for a long time.”
Reporting that the life span of masks got shortened because of the moisture from the person’s breath and because of misuses, Üstünkarlı said that taking the masks off due, eating and drinking frequently increased the infection risk. Üstünkarlı gave the following advice about use of face masks: “If the mask is being taken off for a short period to be used again, it should be held from one of the ear loops and gently lifted and put back on from the same side again. During this time, you should avoid touching the part of the mask that is in contact with the skin. If you touch your skin, wash it with soap and water. Mask must be removed from the ear loops and not touch the skin.”
LEAVE THE FIRST GLOVE INSIDE THE OTHER AND DISPOSE
Üstünkarlı stated the following about removing the gloves: “Grasp the outside of one glove at the wrist. Do not touch your bare skin. Peel the glove away from your body, pulling it inside out. Hold the glove you just removed in your gloved hand. Peel off the second glove by putting your fingers inside the glove at the top of your wrist. Turn the second glove inside out while pulling it away from your body, leaving the first glove inside the second. Dispose of the gloves safely. Do not reuse the gloves. Clean your hands immediately after removing gloves.”
CRITICAL ADVICE IN 6 STEPS
1) Do not remove and put on the same face mask and gloves frequently.
2) Think of a discarded face mask and/or glove as infectious material.
3) Do not leave them in open spaces where people may have close contact.
4) Do not touch your bare skin with gloves and outer surface of the face mask.
5) Dispose the gloves by leaving the first glove inside the second.
6) Wash your hands immediately if you touch the gloves or the mask.
