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# FDA Mask, Gown Conservation Strategies
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-mask-gown-conservation-strategies/
- Published: 2020-03-11T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T16:06:42.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Devices, #legacy-id-D5146303

In a letter to healthcare providers, FDA provides recommendations for conservation strategies that may be needed as the need for personal protective equipment such as surgical masks, surgical and isolation gowns, and surgical suits may outpace the supply available to healthcare organizations during the Covid-19 outbreak. The [letter](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/letters-health-care-providers/surgical-mask-and-gown-conservation-strategies-letter-healthcare-providers?ref=fdaweb.com) says the conservation strategies are categorized for a range of needs and supply levels and are intended to assist healthcare organizations as they determine operating procedures during the Covid-19 outbreak. The strategies do not cover N95 respirators and are not limited to use in caring for patients infected with Covid-19.

The agency also issued [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/faqs-shortages-surgical-masks-and-gowns?ref=fdaweb.com) on the shortage of masks and gowns.