Operation of physiological function tests with high risk of aerosol transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic: Infection control (two-week rule and PPE) in our hospital

Abstract

COVID-19 is an emerging infectious disease caused by SARS-Cov-2 and has spread worldwide. We have encountered many problems in the prevention and control of COVID-19 in the hospital, many aspects of which remain unknown. As indicated in the statements from each academic society, many laboratories have suspended or postponed physiological function tests with a high risk of aerosol transmission, except for emergencies, because the risk of infection occurs even before the onset of symptoms of the disease, and there is concern about the possibility of a large number of contacts among hospital staff members at the time of disease onset. Also, the PCR test is not highly sensitive because of the sampling method and other factors, and it is possible that patients who tested negative may still have the virus (i.e., false negative). If a confirmed COVID-19 patient obtains a negative PCR test result after being quarantined for two weeks, COVID-19 can be ruled out to the maximum extent possible at this stage. However, it is still an unsatisfactory infection control. Therefore, it is necessary to take adequate measures to prevent infection. We report on the operation of a physiological function test with a high risk of aerosol transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic in our hospital.