What is the primary function of a surgical mask?

The primary function of a surgical mask is to protect both the patient and the healthcare provider from respiratory droplets. Surgical masks are designed to create a physical barrier that prevents the transmission of infectious agents, which can be expelled in droplets when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes. This is particularly important in a surgical or clinical setting where maintaining a sterile environment is crucial for patient safety and preventing complications.

While filtering air particles may occur to some extent, the primary purpose is not about filtering all airborne particles but rather about controlling the spread of larger respiratory droplets. Protecting against spills is not a primary function of surgical masks; instead, other personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns and face shields are more suited for that purpose. Additionally, using a mask for warmth is not its intended function, as surgical masks are primarily focused on infection control and not thermal insulation. Thus, option C accurately captures the crucial role surgical masks play in infection control practices.