Prevention of Pressure Injury from Elastic Ear Loop of Face Masks: A Technical Report with Review of Literature

Abstract

Protective masks are widely used today to prevent the spread of microorganisms, especially masks used duringsurgery with elastic loops. When the mask is worn for several hours a day, these stretching bands constantly press against theskin, resulting in pressure on the cartilage of the auricle, resulting in erythematous and painful lesions on the skin behind theauricle. Wearing masks for extended periods is now common with patients and members of the public. There is pressure harmto the ear while using this mask often over time. As a result, individuals continually change the mask to release the pressure,which raises their risk of contracting infection. The damage to the ears and auricles can be a side effect of continued use andshould be recognized by doctors and other health care professionals. This article focuses on a new technique to reduce strainon the ear loops of surgical masks. Also, it reviews the common ear injuries or pressure injuries on the ear published in theliterature related to prolonged use of masks and their preventive strategies.