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S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P AT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4
What percentage of surgical smoke particles
measure less than 1.1 micrometers in diameter?
a.
under 15%
c.
about 50%
b.
about 30%
d.
more than 75%
Answer:
d
This is why surgical masks, even high-filtration ones, don't always offer enough
protection. Approximately 77% of the particulate matter in smoke measures 1.1
micrometers or smaller. Viral particles can be even smaller than 0.1 micrometer.
Although higher-filtration masks can offer some respiratory protection, there's
ongoing controversy about how and how long you should wear a mask; one
that's worn too loose or too long is less effective. Remember though, a mask
should never be the only defense against smoke.
The most effective smoke evacuators have a 3-stage
filtration system that includes a _________________.
a.
pre-filter, HEPA filter and charcoal filter
b.
pre-filter, ULPA filter and charcoal filter
c.
pre-filter, Alta filter and microfiber filter
d.
pre-filter, ULPA filter and soda lime filter
Answer:
b
An evacuation system equipped with an ultra-low penetration air (ULPA) filter is
the most effective way to remove smoke. ULPA filters are made up of a depth-
media material that is capable of capturing particulate matter as small as 0.12
microns at an efficiency rate of 99.9999%. At that rate, only 1 in 1 million parti-
cles will escape capture.
S U R G I C A L S M O K E
