Facing Disaster During a COVID-19 Outbreak: What Emergency Medicine Experts Should Know?

Abstract

Context: Since December 2019, the new coronavirus (COVID-19) has been identified as one of the significant challenges in the health systems of countries. Recently, the development and equipping of hospitals and medical centers have been considered as a priority, providing a variety of advanced services in the areas of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive services to patients. The present review aimed to shed light on the importance and crucial role of knowledge in the field of emergency medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic and to compare the local and international guidelines. Finally, in addition to the workplace and emergency practitioners’ acts, alongside the especial need to frequently disinfect with appropriate antiseptic materials, negative pressure ventilation should also be in the triage and emergency rooms. Besides, personal protection requirements should be sufficiently accessible, and emergency physicians should be trained to use them properly while adhering to safety principles. It is also recommended to use a cap, gown, appropriate mask, shield, and gloves during treatment, diagnostic and supportive measures, and practice frequent hand washing with antiseptic materials like alcohol solutions, as it reduces the risk of infection transmission. Moreover, it is imperative that nurses and physicians working in emergencies follow all safety principles at the end of the shift before entering their homes. Conclusions: Ultimately, the final goal is to reduce the virus transmission through early detection, supportive, diagnostic, and therapeutic actions, and appropriate follow-up.