RebeccaRN
Songster
Ive been a nurse for 23 years and Yes its rough wearing a mask an entire 12hr shift. We have to wear N95s or a respirator and it can be very suffocating at times. We take time for mask breaks when we can but its not always possible when The ED is busy.Try quilting cottons, Cynthia. They've tested pretty well because they're closely woven long staple cottons.
When I'm talking mine collapses and expands with my breath (a good sign) and yet they're breathable enough to wear for hours at a time. Not saying I'm not glad when I can take my triple layer one off but I wore it today for the best part of 9am to 2pm without significant discomfort. ...and I'm asthmatic.
OTOH several months ago I had to spend the day in a hospital because my husband required blood transfusions. I was lucky they would let me be with him. But I had to wear my mask all day and it was tough. Hot and my ears hurt from the elastic straps. I got a real respect for the medical personnel who have to do it all day EVERYday!