Designing and Launching Coronavirus Disease 19 Electronic Registry in Shiraz, Iran: A Brief Report

Abstract

Introduction: The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has created a global concern for public health. Having sufficient data is the first step to understand the behavior of contagious diseases such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Although various studies have assessed COVID-19 features, there are many limitations about patients’ characteristics, complications, and outcomes in different countries including Iran. The present study reported launching an electronic database for COVID-19 patients in Fars province, Iran. Method: A comprehensive web-based multicenter registry was designed and launched by Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in order to collect all information about COVID-19 hospitalized patients in Fars province, Iran. Results: In this registry, patients’ demographic characteristics, chest computed tomography scan findings, laboratory tests, complications during hospitalization, treatments, and disease course in Intensive Care units are recorded on a web-based electronic database. The virtual statues of the patient’s family are evaluated by telephone calls, and the proceeding will be implemented for quarantine and hospitalization if required. Conclusion: The registry is hoped to help all scientists to understand the current challenges and be prepared for possible future waves of the epidemic. Finally, this registry is a resource for all researchers who are interested in coronavirus and plays an important role in supporting the scientific community on the frontlines of combating the virus.

COVID-19 Electronic Registry Systems in Iran: A Review

“…In addition, the authors did not mention the algorithm of patient care. Similar to the study conducted by Akbari et al, 21 this study also did not provide any statistical reports of the registered patients.…”

“…After careful screening, four articles were confirmed and enrolled in this review, 4,[21][22][23] which are summarized in Table 1. These registries were designed and launched by Isfahan, Shiraz, Tehran, and Ilam Universities of Medical Sciences.…”

“…Another electronic web-based registry system in Shiraz city (south of Iran) was designed by Akbari et al 21 to record data on suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients. This system is approved by Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; it is designed based on a comprehensive form that was according to a checklist recommended by WHO.…”

“…After discharge or death of the patients, data are extracted from their medical records as well as checklists by doctors, nurses, and researchers, and enter into this web-based system. Similar to the COVID-19 registry system developed in Shiraz, 21 patients and their families are monitored during the hospitalization and one month later for vital signs, readmission, and drugs side effects. In addition, as mentioned for the COVID-19 registry system of Shiraz, 21 the author noted that due to the unknown nature of the disease, guidelines and protocols may change during the study.…”

“…Similar to the COVID-19 registry system developed in Shiraz, 21 patients and their families are monitored during the hospitalization and one month later for vital signs, readmission, and drugs side effects. In addition, as mentioned for the COVID-19 registry system of Shiraz, 21 the author noted that due to the unknown nature of the disease, guidelines and protocols may change during the study. Therefore, a committee of experts continuously monitors national recommendations, data collection issues, and data entry accuracy.…”