Effectiveness of fever tent setup in Covid-19 pandemic – from radiology's perspective.
J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2021;
53:159-166. [PMID:
35078744 PMCID:
PMC8716167 DOI:
10.1016/j.jmir.2021.12.007]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction
This paper describes our experience in setting up a dedicated imaging facility within a temporary fever tentage in an acute tertiary hospital in Singapore during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We review the effectiveness of the setup and its role from the radiological perspective in detail.
Methods
The dedicated imaging facility within the temporary fever tentage was equipped with a computer-on-wheels (COWs) to access patients’ medical records and a portable x-ray machine to allow for a smooth workflow. Radiation dose measurements were acquired around the imaging facility using phantoms and dosimeters to ensure radiation safety.
Results
Due to its rapid nature and availability as a screening tool, chest x-ray (CXR) is the most widely used imaging modality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our dedicated fever tent setup minimizes possible in-hospital transmission between both patients and staff and provides a more streamlined workflow to tackle the high workload. It allowed us to reduce the time required for each radiograph, providing timely imaging services and radiological reports for expedient clinical screening.
Discussion
The close collaboration between Radiology and Emergency Departments in setting up the fever tentage is a crucial tool in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. The fever tentage imaging facility is a highly effective tool, providing the means to handle the increased patient load in a streamlined and safe manner during a pandemic.
Conclusion
This paper provides insights and guidelines in setting up a dedicated imaging service within the fever tent for future infectious disease outbreak contingency plans.
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