In which situation should a HEPA mask be worn?

Wearing a HEPA mask is particularly critical when interacting with suspected tuberculosis patients due to the airborne transmission nature of the disease. Tuberculosis can be spread through tiny droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it essential to protect healthcare providers from inhaling these infectious agents. HEPA masks are designed to filter out small particles, including bacteria and viruses, ensuring a higher level of protection compared to regular surgical masks.

In contrast, flu-like symptoms can be caused by various illnesses, and while a surgical mask may be appropriate, a HEPA mask is not specifically required for these cases unless the patient is also suspected of having a highly contagious respiratory disease like tuberculosis. Regarding a chemical spill, other types of personal protective equipment (PPE) are typically necessary depending on the nature of the chemical involved. Routine check-ups generally do not require a HEPA mask unless there's a known risk of airborne disease transmission.