Disposable mask assembly with exhaust filter and valve disc and method of assembling same

Abstract

A face mask assembly and method of assembling a face mask is provided for a patient that includes a face piece sized to fit over the patient's nose and mouth. The face mask assembly forms a mask chamber between the face piece and the patient's nose and mouth. An inhalation adapter is coupled to the face piece to deliver medication to the chamber. A filter housing is coupled to the face piece and includes a flange section that defines a passageway to connect the mask chamber and the flange section. A filter is positioned in the filter housing. A cover is coupled to the flange section and has an exhalation opening or vent to allow gases from the mask chamber to pass through the filter and escape from the passageway to the atmosphere. In a second embodiment, the filter housing is modified by providing a frame adjacent the bottom with a cross-shaped structure and a retainer button attached to the housing. A valve disc is provided between the retainer button and frame adapted to allow gases from the mask chamber around the valve disc towards the filter. When a patient inhales oxygen through the nasal portion, the valve disc moves towards the mask and partially covers a plurality of apertures to partially block additional air from entering the chamber. When a patient exhales contaminated oxygen, the valve disc moves towards the retainer button to allow a maximum amount of air through the apertures towards the filter.