The role of surgical gowns, drapes, and masks in the generation of airborne particulates

AORN Journal, Oct, 2000 by Nathan L. Belkin

(19.) N J Mitchell, S Hunt, "Surgical face masks in modern operating rooms--a costly and unnecessary ritual?" Journal of Hospital Infection 18 (July 1991) 238-242.

(20.) "Occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens; Final rule," Federal Register, 56 (Dec 6, 1991) 64177.

(21.) J Jagger, M Bentley, P Tereskerz, "A study of patterns and prevention of blood exposures in OR personnel," AORN Journal 67 (May 1998) 979-996.

(22.) W C Beck, "The surgical mask: Another `sacred cow'?" AORN Journal 55 (April 1992) 955-957.

(23.) Belkin, "A century after their introduction, are surgical masks necessary?" 602-607.

NATHAN L. BELKIN, PHD, is retired and resides in Clearwater, Fla.