Post written by Ping-Hong Zhou, MD, PhD, from the Endoscopy Center and Endoscopy Research Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

This video shows how to manage an endoscopy unit during the COVID-19 pandemic, with specific details on work flow, screening staff, screening patients, management in preprocedure areas and endoscopy rooms, postprocedure management, environment disinfection, endoscopy disinfection, and patient follow-up. We also provide details on how to put on and remove PPE.

COVID-19 has become a global public health concern. Due to potential aerosol transmission, GI endoscopy is considered a high-risk procedure during this pandemic. Therefore, how to prevent endoscopy unit transmission is a top problem that many GI departments are faced with.

Epidemiological survey and screening of patients and staff cannot be overemphasized during the pandemic. In addition to adequate PPE, hand hygiene and compliance with protocols are also important. Special caution should be taken to prevent transmission between medical staff.

Read the full article online.

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