The N95 respirator mask is essential when handling patients with tuberculosis because it filters out airborne particles, including the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, which are transmitted via airborne droplet nuclei. Unlike surgical or cloth masks, the N95 provides a tight seal around the face, ensuring effective protection against inhalation of infectious aerosols. This is critical in preventing nosocomial transmission among healthcare workers and other patients. Surgical masks do not offer sufficient filtration for airborne pathogens like tuberculosis. Therefore, an N95 respirator is the recommended PPE for airborne precautions in TB cases.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, Fauci et al., 20th Edition.