The Management of Infectious Pulmonary Processes in the Emergency Department: Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a common diagnosis encountered by emergency medicine providers. It is crucial that an accurate and timely diagnosis is established in order to appropriately manage each patient. Following the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019, the frequency of patient visits to the emergency department for symptoms consistent with pneumonia have increased and overwhelmed virtually all hospital systems. The rapid identification of COVID-19 patients is imperative for patient care and to these hospital systems experiencing the pandemic. Community-acquired bacterial pneumonia continues to be prevalent and clinical decision-making tools are useful aids to assist the appropriate disposition of patients.