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Infection control and anesthesia: lessons learned from the Toronto SARS outbreak
Philip W H Peng1, David T Wong, David Bevan
1Departments of Anesthesia, and Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto. , Toronto, Ontario, Canada. philip.peng@uhn.on.ca
Canadian Journal of Anaesthesia = Journal Canadien D'Anesthesie
|December 6, 2003
Summary
Strict infection control measures are crucial for managing the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak, impacting anesthesia practices and operating room procedures. Vigilance in daily anesthesia practice is key to containing SARS-CoV spread.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Anesthesiology
- Public Health
Background:
- The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in Toronto originated from a single patient.
- SARS-CoV, the causative virus, spreads via droplets and contact, affecting respiratory and ocular mucosa.
- Both healthy and immunocompromised individuals are susceptible to SARS-CoV infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the Toronto SARS outbreak.
- To analyze its effects on anesthesia practice.
- To outline infection control guidelines for operating rooms and emergency intubations.
Main Methods:
- Review of the SARS outbreak in Toronto.
- Discussion of SARS-CoV transmission routes (droplets, contact).
- Description of protective measures: goggles, gloves, gowns, facemasks, and infection control strategies.
Main Results:
- The SARS outbreak was traced to a single index patient.
- SARS-CoV transmission occurs through respiratory droplets and direct contact.
- Effective control relies on stringent adherence to infection control protocols.
Conclusions:
- Vigilance and strict infection control are paramount in containing SARS.
- The outbreak reinforced the importance of established infection control standards in anesthesia.
- Daily anesthesia practice requires consistent application of these measures.