In terms of knowledge, skill, and compassion, the US healthcare workforce is pretty well prepared to respond effectively to the current pandemic. But, as the news media keep emphasizing, many healthcare facilities are not prepared with enough equipment and supplies.
The video below, featuring Raleigh, NC-based foot and ankle surgeon Sarah E. DeWitt, MD, demonstrates step-by-step instructions for making washable, adjustable masks for healthcare workers.
Dr. Dewitt is quick to point out that the two main materials she uses, the paper portion of an air-conditioner filter and 100% cotton (e.g., a pillowcase), will not result in a mask that replicates anything like the virus-filtering N95 mask. But the materials will provide a general barrier, and washing the masks in detergent with bleach will remove nearly 100% of pathogens.
Please feel free to share this video with your friends, family, and colleagues. Thank you, Dr. DeWitt. #jbjstogether
