Who wears a face mask when material is injected into the spinal or epidural space?

1. In October 2005 the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee reviewed the evidence on meningitis after spinal procedures. 2. It concluded that there is sufficient experience to warrant the additional protection of a face mask. 3. The mask is specified for the individual placing a catheter or injecting material into the spinal or epidural space. 4. That person leans over the puncture site, so oral flora carried in droplets can reach the field. 5. The recommendation names that operator rather than everyone in the room, so the wider option overstates it. 6. Masking the patient is not the measure described, and the assistant handling contrast is not the one identified. _Source: CDC Guideline for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Healthcare Settings (2007), Part III, section III.A.1.c. Infection Control Practices for Special Lumbar Puncture Procedures_