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(Old 0928)COVID-19 Resource Center
Patient Care
Safe Patient Care Visitor Policy Appointment Options Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Patient Masking Guidelines Hear from Our Leaders Patient and Family Resources Vaccine Update COVID-19 Outpatient Therapeutics Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS) Clinic Omicron Surge Information for Patients
COVID-19 Basics
Research
Participate in COVID-19 Research Stanford Experts Explain Their Research
Testing
Health Care Professionals
Resources and Testing for First Responders and Essential Workers Advice on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) COVID-19 Outpatient Therapeutics - Health Care Professionals
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Home / Patient Care / Masking Guidelines

Masking Guidelines

Updated on 02/22/22

Masking at Stanford Health Care

While California’s statewide indoor mask mandate for vaccinated people lifted on February 16, 2022, the state order requires masking indoors in health care settings. Masking will remain mandatory indoors for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and continues to be recommended outdoors in crowded settings. Indoor mask requirements also remain in effect at all Stanford University campus locations. 

Please keep in mind that public health authorities’ guidance is for the general public; as a health system, with our highly vulnerable patient population, we must be more cautious in loosening COVID-related restrictions.
 
Wearing a mask is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 
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What type of mask is allowed?

Upon arriving at any Stanford Health Care location, patients must go through designated entry points to complete entry screening process. Patients are required to wear the fresh procedure mask provided to them at the entrance. Home made cloth masks are not allowed. 

Care teams can provide more information.

When should I wear a mask?

Masks must be worn at all times upon entry to Stanford Health Care facilities and when outside.

How do I safely put on and take off my mask?

To put on your mask:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, scrubbing thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
  • Grasp the mask by its ear loops to it pick up.
  • Place the inside of the mask over your face, putting the loops behind your ears.
  • Avoid touching the inside of the mask.
  • Pinch the nose piece to fit the mask to your face.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

To take your mask off:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, scrubbing thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
  • Remove the mask by holding the ear loops.
  • Inspect it. If it’s dirty, torn, or wet, ask for a new one and discard the old one.
  • If the mask is not visibly soiled or torn, carefully place it with outside facing the table on a paper towel.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.

What if my mask gets dirty?

If your mask gets dirty, wet, or damaged, ask your care team for a new one. Ask where you should discard your old mask.