In a now viral Twitter video, Dr Maitiu O Tuathail donned six surgical masks while measuring his oxygen levels on a pulse oximeter.
The experiment shows the Irish doctor putting the masks on one at a time, while his oxygen levels remained stable at 99 percent.
The doctor shot the video in response to numerous patients asking if wearing a face mask had an effect on oxygen levels. He noted that much of this misinformation came from what they had read on social media.
Dr O Tuathail encouraged his audience to wear face masks where social distancing was not possible, including while seeking medical attention.
Getting asked
“Does wearing a face mask lower your oxygen levels” repeatedly by patients today!
Based on what they are reading on social media
*Face coverings / masks don’t reduce your oxygen levels!*
I managed to get six face masks on + it had no effect on my oxygen levels! pic.twitter.com/qNKYa8pejx
— Maitiu O Tuathail (@DrZeroCraic) July 14, 2020
A NSW Ministry of Health directive now requires health care workers to wear masks when within 1.5 metres of a patient. All patients are also required to wear masks when presenting to a health service, with exceptions made for children under 12 years old.
If you have any questions about PPE or the use of masks, and you are a member of the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association, check out our article or contact us. If you are not yet a member, join today.