Infection Control Practices and Outcomes of Endoscopy Units in the Lombardy Region of Italy (original) (raw)

Abstract

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This survey investigates infection control practices and outcomes in Digestive Endoscopy Units across Lombardy, Italy, during the COVID-19 outbreak. With a participation rate of 57.4% from invited centers, the findings indicate that while adherence to safety recommendations was generally positive, a minority of units could fully comply. Notably, endoscopists and nurses exhibited higher rates of confirmed COVID-19 infections, underscoring the transmission risks associated with endoscopic procedures.

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References (10)

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  10. FIGURE 2. Rate of health care providers in Endoscopy Units calling in sick and coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID)+ ascertained cases. The rate of COVID-19 cases seems higher among medical doctors and nurses compared with intermediate-care technicians and administrative personnel, suggesting that the work inside the endoscopy room might increase the risk.

FAQs

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What were the changes in endoscopic procedure volumes during the outbreak?add

Endoscopic procedures decreased by 61.2% from 19,876 in March 2019 to 7,701 in March 2020, showcasing significant operational impacts due to the pandemic.

How did infection rates among healthcare professionals vary by role?add

The study showed a trend in COVID-19 infection rates among healthcare professionals, with 7.9% of physicians, 6.6% of nurses, and lower rates in technicians and administrative staff.

What infection control measures did endoscopy units implement?add

Most centers provided FFP2/FFP3 respirators and implemented body temperature checks, though only 8.8% had negative-pressure rooms.

How was adherence to infection control recommendations assessed in the study?add

Adherence was quantitatively assessed through a survey, revealing many centers modified activities but few fully complied with all provided recommendations.

Was there any correlation found between hospital volume and PPE availability?add

A significant inverse correlation (Spearman ρ = -0.343; P = 0.045) indicated larger centers had less PPE availability compared to smaller facilities.