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American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society Task Force Recommendations for Resumption of Motility Laboratory
Jason R Baker1, Baha Moshiree1, Satish Rao2
1Atrium Health, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.
Abstract:
The American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society Task Force recommends that gastrointestinal motility procedures should be performed in motility laboratories adhering to the strict recommendations and personal protective equipment (PPE) measures to protect patients, ancillary staff, and motility allied health professionals. When available and within constraints of institutional guidelines, it is preferable for patients scheduled for motility procedures to complete a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) test within 48 hours before their procedure, similar to the recommendations before endoscopy made by gastroenterology societies. COVID-19 test results must be documented before performing procedures. If procedures are to be performed without a COVID-19 test, full PPE use is recommended, along with all social distancing and infection control measures. Because patients with suspected motility disorders may require multiple procedures, sequential scheduling of procedures should be considered to minimize need for repeat COVID-19 testing. The strategies for and timing of procedure(s) should be adapted, taking into consideration local institutional standards, with the provision for screening without testing in low prevalence areas. If tested positive for COVID-19, subsequent negative testing may be required before scheduling a motility procedure (timing is variable). Specific recommendations for each motility procedure including triaging, indications, PPE use, and alternatives to motility procedures are detailed in the document. These recommendations may evolve as understanding of virus transmission and prevalence of COVID-19 infection in the community changes over the upcoming months.
Insights
Gastrointestinal motility procedures require strict safety measures, including personal protective equipment (PPE). Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing is recommended before procedures, with protocols adapting to local prevalence and guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Disease Control
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Gastrointestinal motility procedures necessitate stringent safety protocols to mitigate infection risks.
- The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) requires adaptation of healthcare practices.
- Protecting patients and healthcare professionals is paramount during medical procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide recommendations for performing gastrointestinal motility procedures safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To outline guidelines for patient screening, testing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) use.
- To ensure the continuity of care for patients with motility disorders while minimizing transmission risks.
Main Methods:
- Development of guidelines by the American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society Task Force.
- Emphasis on adherence to laboratory standards and PPE requirements.
- Integration of COVID-19 testing and screening strategies into procedural workflows.
Main Results:
- Recommendations for pre-procedural COVID-19 testing within 48 hours, when feasible.
- Guidelines for full PPE use and infection control measures if testing is not performed.
- Consideration for sequential procedure scheduling to reduce repeat testing needs.
Conclusions:
- Motility laboratories must implement strict safety measures, including PPE and infection control.
- COVID-19 testing and screening protocols should be adapted based on local prevalence and institutional policies.
- These recommendations aim to ensure patient and staff safety while facilitating essential motility testing.