Pediatric lung function testing during a pandemic: An international perspective

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted healthcare services globally.
• Pulmonary function testing (PFT) laboratories faced closures and operational challenges.
• Adapting PFT services for pediatric and adult patients became critical during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize international PFT laboratory management practices during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify key strategies for patient safety and operational continuity in PFT settings.
• To explore the role of telemedicine in PFT service delivery.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of PFT laboratory management practices across different countries.
• Analysis of infection control measures, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and testing room requirements.
• Evaluation of patient appointment systems and the integration of telemedicine.

Main Results:

• Varied approaches to PFT laboratory reopening and operation were observed globally.
• Implementation of enhanced infection control protocols, including stringent PPE use, was common.
• Telemedicine adoption increased for certain aspects of PFT, though direct testing required careful management.

Conclusions:

• PFT laboratories implemented diverse strategies to ensure patient and staff safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The pandemic accelerated the adoption of innovative practices, such as telemedicine, in PFT services.
• Continued adaptation of PFT laboratory management is essential for future public health challenges.