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Italian pediatric respiratory society recommendations on pediatric pulmonary function testing during COVID-19
Elisabetta Bignamini1, Salvatore Cazzato2, Renato Cutrera3
1Pediatric Pulmonology, Cystic Fibrosis Centre, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy.
Insights
Pediatric pulmonary function testing during COVID-19 requires strict infection control. Spirometry is recommended for children with chronic lung disease only when essential for management, prioritizing safety.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Infectious Disease Control
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates stringent safety protocols in healthcare settings.
- Effective prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission is crucial, especially in vulnerable populations.
Discussion:
- New recommendations address pulmonary function testing (PFT) laboratories during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The Italian Pediatric Respiratory Society outlines guidelines for safe PFT procedures.
- Emphasis is placed on minimizing risks associated with aerosol-generating procedures.
Key Insights:
- Pulmonary function testing in children with chronic lung disease should be judiciously applied.
- Testing is indicated only when critical for guiding patient management.
- Spirometry is the primary recommended PFT, with strict adherence to infection control measures.
Outlook:
- Continued vigilance and adaptation of PFT protocols are essential.
- Future guidelines may evolve based on ongoing pandemic research.
- Maintaining safe respiratory care for pediatric patients remains a priority.
Background:
Effective prevention and control strategies are mandatory to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Main Text:
The Italian Pediatric Respiratory Society promotes a series of new recommendations that should be followed in pulmonary function testing laboratories during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion:
Pulmonary function testing should be performed in children with chronic lung disease only if it is needed to guide management and limited to the necessary tests, namely spirometry. When performed, strict infection control measures should be followed due to the potential risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2.