Recommendations for pulmonary function laboratories in the COVID-19 era

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, poses significant risks.
• Respiratory function testing carries an implicit risk of aerosolizing infectious microdroplets.
• Pulmonary Function Laboratories (PFLs) faced limitations in activity due to pandemic-related concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update recommendations for managing PFLs during the COVID-19 outbreak in Argentina.
• To provide guidance on conducting pulmonary function testing amidst varying community viral spread.
• To outline biosafety measures for patients and operators in PFLs.

Main Methods:

• Developing updated recommendations for PFL operations.
• Incorporating strategies for different phases of community viral spread (high and low).
• Addressing the evaluation of post-COVID-19 patients and general biosafety.

Main Results:

• Recommendations cover conducting pulmonary function tests safely during high and low COVID-19 community spread.
• Guidelines include protocols for evaluating patients who have recovered from COVID-19.
• Biosafety measures focus on environmental controls and personal protection.

Conclusions:

• Updated biosafety protocols enable the safe operation of PFLs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Implementing measures like air circulation, antimicrobial filters, and personal protection is crucial.
• These updated guidelines support the resumption of essential pulmonary function testing services.