As medical offices and practices around the country begin to open back up, we’ve received a few questions about the difference between air purifiers and medical suction devices. While the differences between these two technologies are night and day, we feel that it’s important to briefly go over the differences for our clients. Here’s what you need to know about air purifiers and suction pumps and the differences between them.
Do Air Purifiers and Suction Pumps Do the Same Things?
The short answer to this question is “absolutely not.” Suction pumps are designed to suck fluids out of a patients mouth or airway. This can be applied in a range of medical situations in which a patient is unable to swallow. While these devices are essential for many medical practices, particularly dental offices, they offer no practical protection from airborne contaminants.
Air purifiers, on the other hand, are specifically meant for removing impurities from the air. While this can include pathogens coughed up by a patient, it also includes dust, mold spores, pollen, and a host of other contaminants that can affect your, your staff and your patients.
Why Do You Need an Air Purifier?
Now that you can see the fundamental differences between suction devices and air purifiers, let’s consider why a medical office would need air purification. In addition to common contaminants like dust, it’s important to keep airborne pathogens under control. Bacteria and viruses spread by patients or your own staff can make your office a potential hazard. At a time when we’re all paying more attention than usual to the risk of airborne viruses and bacteria, it’s more important than ever to be sure you’re taking every step you can to add extra layers of protection for everyone who comes through your medical practice.
If you have questions about how an air purifier can help keep your staff and patients safe, we’re here to help! Feel free to contact us with your questions, and we’ll be happy to provide you with answers and product recommendations based on the needs of your business.