Abstract

SAAB, María Angélica et al. Contingency Measures in an Interventional Pulmonology Service for Rigid Bronchoscopy Procedures during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Rev. am. med. respir. [online]. 2020, vol.20, n.2, pp.162-170. ISSN 1852-236X.

On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declares the pandemic of SARS-CoV2, responsible for the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-CoV2). It has been shown that the airways of patients infected with COVID-19 have a high viral load, especially in the nose, throat and trachea. Procedures involving the upper aerodigestive tract, such as the bronchoscopy, are considered to carry a high risk of infection. Recommendations from different societies establish certain guidelines for these procedures, suggesting specific safety measures and, where possible, avoiding the performance of rigid bronchospies. Our unit belongs to an interventional pulmonology service of the Public Health System. In order to be able to meet the demand for medical care, the need to perform urgent procedures and the limitation to infrastructure and resources, we began a contingency plan and testing of alternative elements intended to increase the safety of the staff and the patients. This study introduces general measures and new devices included in our work sequence with the purpose of improving biosafety for the health staff and the patient when there is still a need to follow the procedures.

Keywords : Bronchoscopy; COVID-19; Containment of Biohazards.

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