Can I reuse my N95 mask if I put a medical mask over top?
Commercial and surgical grade N95 respirators are of similar structure and design. The main difference between the two grades is that commercial N95 respirators are not tested for fluid resistance of any type. Therefore, surgical grade respirators are preferred for patient care. If surgical N95 respirators are not available and there is a risk that the worker may be exposed to high velocity droplets or splatters of blood or body fluids, a face shield or surgical mask must be worn over the commercial N95 respirator to provide the fluid resistance necessary. Always check to ensure that your respirator is fluid resistant, and, if it is not, create fluid resistance by adding a surgical mask or full-face shield as mentioned above. This will also facilitate the possibility of re-using the N95 respirator, as it will protect it from becoming moist or visibly soiled requiring its disposal. DHCPs are to use their own judgement regarding when to replace their mask.