T.N. Murthy is a senior respiratory therapist in Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, India. He has attended several conferences and his research interests include pulmonology, intensive care and many more.
Abstract
The Corona Virus 2019 was declared as a pandemic in March 2020 by WHO.
Preparing our ICU for the outbreak was a challenging task for the department but was unavoidable.
Non-availability of evidence based protocols globally along with inexperience of situation had been major issues for Planning and implementation of protocols. The task force laid in front of us was:
Protocol preparation, Implementation and Education: Prepare and implement isolation protocols and gear up for a surge in ICU bed capacity. High quality training for healthcare staff to ensure patient as well as personnel safety.
Clinical management and training: Appropriate quality clinical treatment of COVID patients and preparing for post COVID rehabilitation, nutrition, Psychological support
Optimal Resource management: This included both Human as well as material management. Human resources was under specific strain due to high infectivity rate, influenced by fear and isolation. Ensure adequate supply of ICU equipment like Ventilators, Monitors, Beds etc., for the increasing capacity day by day. Ensure adequate supply of disposable items, PPE kits, N95 Masks, Respirator Masks, Face shields etc.,
Psychosocial aspects and emotional lability: Education of the workforce on their safety, psychological support and adequate training of allied healthcare professionals to maintain a sane environment.
COVID-19 and Respiratory System
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma
Lung Cancer
Pneumonia
Cardio Pulmonary Disorders
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Interstitial Lung Disease
Lung Transplantation
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Occupational Lung Diseases
Pulmonary Hypertension and Pulmonary Rehabilitation