Outpatient pulmonary departments and functional diagnostic centers during the coronavirus epidemic: a University Hospital Hradec Králové position document for the Hradec Králové region
Abstract
Since the COVID-19 pandemic has not eliminated other diseases, there is a strong need to resume taking care of our chronic patients and examine and diagnose new ones under different working conditions, which brings modifications to our routine work. Provided that we use adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), perform proper disinfection and adhere to social distancing, transmission of the virus is minimalized.
It is apparent that due to these measures, not only will our work be more demanding, but also we will manage fewer patients. On the other hand, we may be able to rationalize our work.
The aim of this document is to provide pneumologists with clear suggestions on how to conduct their surgeries and perform functional testing in the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The document is focused mainly on operating their practices, using PPE and disinfection procedures.