SDS FACE SHIELD (Box of 20)
Face shields have been used in healthcare settings for a while now. They recently became a staple for medical personnel who have to intubate patients with COVID-19. But face shields are often worn during a wide variety of medical procedures. This includes surgeries or any procedure where bone fragments, blood or other bodily fluids could get into the eyes, nose and mouth.
A face shield is simply a curved plastic or Plexiglas panel that can be worn over the face. If you’re having a hard time picturing one, think of those old-school transparent visors that you might have rocked in the summer — or a new-school music festival visor that you rock now. A face shield is kind of like that, except the visor part slants down to cover your face and extends slightly beyond the chin.
Are face shields effective?
A 2014 study showed that when tested against an influenza-infused aerosol from a distance of 18 inches away, a face shield reduced exposure by 96% during the period immediately after a cough. The face shield also reduced the surface contamination of a respirator by 97%.
What are the advantages of wearing a face shield?
If you’re tired of struggling with a mask or don’t enjoy having a pocket of hot air on your face for long periods of time, a face shield offers protection and the sweet relief of fresh air. “You don’t get to feel the breeze on your face, but you do get some fresh air, rather than trying to breathe through a cloth mask,” says Dr. Esper. It’s also easier to talk and most importantly, people can still see your face during interactions.
Another plus? Not having to adjust anything.
With masks, we feel the need to touch our faces more. We also find ourselves adjusting them or even pulling them down to talk to people (which we shouldn’t do). Face shields take all of this out of the equation. Most styles are attached to an elastic headband and are easy to wear. You can even wear glasses (minus the fog) or hats with them.
Face shields are reusable, reasonably priced and easy to clean. Dr. Esper suggests cleaning them with an antibacterial wipe or soap and water.