Electrophysiology Practice During COVID-19 Pandemic: A New York Tertiary Hospital Experience

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Electrophysiology
• Anesthesiology
• Pandemic Response

Background:

• Hospitals faced overwhelming patient loads during the COVID-19 pandemic (March-May) in New York.
• Cardiology and Electrophysiology (EP) departments required rapid adaptation of clinical practices.
• Maintaining patient care and personnel safety was a critical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the development of new protocols in Cardiology and EP departments during the pandemic.
• To describe the multidisciplinary approach to patient management and safety.
• To highlight the integral role of anesthesiology in adapting care pathways.

Main Methods:

• Development of protocols for case selection and management in Cardiology and EP.
• Consideration of recommendations from the American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society (AHA/HRS) and American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA).
• Implementation of a multidisciplinary collaborative approach involving anesthesiology teams.

Main Results:

• Protocols were rapidly developed for case selection and modification of patient management.
• A collaborative approach ensured patient care and personnel safety.
• Anesthesiology teams played a key role in workflow, care, recovery, and transport protocols.

Conclusions:

• The pandemic necessitated rapid protocol development and adaptation in Cardiology and EP.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration, particularly with anesthesiology, was crucial for effective patient management and safety.
• These adaptations represent a significant response to unprecedented healthcare challenges.