Novel tip to prevent ear irritation with surgical face masks (FRSM) during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

Background

Guidelines have been issued by Public Health England in relation to the use of face masks for healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic.¹ The current form of fluid resistant surgical masks (FRSM) used in day to day practice has got elastic ties which go behind the ears, and extended use of these masks causes discomfort and irritation behind the ears (Fig 1).² This is especially so if they are used for prolonged procedures.

Figure 1.

Fluid resistant surgical mask with tie

Technique

We describe a simple and effective method of using a standard hospital wristband (Fig 2) to hold the ties of the surgical mask (Fig 3). The long strip of the punched area of the wristband strap is cut and is used with clasps to hold the tie (Fig 4). The tension of the tie in the upper and lower limb can be adjusted by sliding it easily in the clasp.

Figure 2.

Wristband with clasps

Figure 3.

Face mask ties tied to wristband

Figure 4.

Application of face mask with the band holding tie at the back of ears

Figure 5.

Download video file ^{(2.4MB, mp4)}

Video of technique

Discussion

Healthcare professionals may find this technique useful when wearing FRSMs on long shifts in theatres or wards. It allows good fitting of the mask with less irritation to ears. The length of the strip can be adjusted by using the different punched holes. Consequently, less masks are likely to be discarded due to discomfort.