This study was conducted to compare the effect of surgical mask and N95 mask use on physical symptoms due to surgical smoke in operating theatre nurses. The study, which was conducted in a single-group prospective quasi-experimental design, was completed with 38 nurses in the operating theatre unit of a state hospital in the Western Black Sea Region. Data were collected for four weeks using the Descriptive Information Form, Numerical Rating Scale and Symptom Follow-up Form. According to the findings, muscle weakness, myalgia in the upper extremities and muscle cramps were statistically significantly less in nurses using N95 masks. Respiratory parameters, watery eyes and redness were significantly lower in nurses using surgical masks. As a result, it was determined that the type of mask was effective on the incidence of physical symptoms related to surgical smoke.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Willingness to participate in the study
• Aged 18 years or older
• Working as a sterile operating room nurse at least 4 hours per day, 5 days per week
• Compliance with the protocol requiring continuous use of both surgical mask and N95 mask for at least 4 hours per day
• Ability to communicate verbally and provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed psychiatric disorders
• Presence of chronic respiratory, musculoskeletal, or neurological diseases
• Presence of chronic dermatological conditions or allergies affecting the facial or respiratory area
• Speech or communication impairments
• Pregnancy
• Holding a supervisory role (e.g., charge nurse) or non-sterile nursing role
• Planned unit change or rotation during the study period

Outcome assessment and data analysis were conducted by an independent assessor blinded to the type of mask used.