Which of the following is the EMT required to wear when treating patients with suspected tuberculosis?

• A. Surgical mask
• B. N95 mask
• C. Self-contained breathing apparatus
• D. Face shield

Answer: (B)

When treating patients with suspected tuberculosis (TB), the EMT is required to wear an N95 mask. This is because TB is an airborne disease, and the N95 mask is specifically designed to filter out small particles, including those that may carry the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. The N95 mask provides a higher level of filtration compared to a surgical mask, which primarily protects against large respiratory droplets but does not adequately filter out smaller airborne particles that can lead to transmission of TB.

The use of an N95 mask helps ensure a higher degree of protection for the EMT, reducing the risk of inhaling infectious agents during patient care. It's important to remember that proper fit and usage of the N95 are also critical to its effectiveness, as any gaps can allow for the ingress of airborne particles. For these reasons, wearing an N95 mask is the standard precaution for healthcare providers when dealing with patients who may have active tuberculosis.