Abstract
Early in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic most jurisdictions implemented broad mask mandates across all healthcare settings. Health providers in numerous localities including New Zealand have, as of 2023, continued to recommend the use of face coverings in healthcare interactions, including in some mental health settings, as an intervention to attempt to reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to vulnerable patient populations. This intervention may have significant implications for psychiatric care, which relies on nuanced communication, including non-verbal communication.
The goal of this scoping review is to map the current literature concerning face coverings and their possible impacts in mental health settings. In doing this we hope to provide an overall impression of any impacts face coverings may have when worn in settings where mental health care is delivered, identify any research gaps, and offer suggestions for areas of future research.